In this section:
The benefits of filing SDLT returns online
Filing your Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) return online is quick and easy and can usually be completed in ten minutes. Two thirds of all SDLT transactions are now filed this way.
This guide summarises the benefits of filing online – whether you choose to use HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) software or software from a commercial provider.
On this page:
- Benefits of filing SDLT online at a glance
- Getting the SDLT return right first time
- Automatic calculation of the amount of tax due
- Receive your SDLT5 certificate immediately
- No more mistakes, processing delays or lost returns
- Allows you to prepare your online SDLT return in advance
- Filing online is safe and secure
- HMRC or commercial options for filing online
- SDLT online - how to get started
Benefits of filing SDLT online at a glance
Whichever software you use, completing the SDLT return online saves you time and the costs associated with that time:
- only the questions relevant to your particular type of transaction appear on the screen - no need to work out what applies to you and what doesn’t
- on-screen support prevents you from making mistakes - you won’t get letters from HMRC asking for more information
- the amount of tax due is calculated for you - no need to use separate calculators
- you can print off the SDLT5 certificate right away - no need to wait for the SDLT return to be processed and certificate sent to you by post
- some commercial software providers offer additional time-saving features such as case management and workflow
Getting the SDLT return right first time
The online service provides an intelligent form which ensures you only answer the questions that apply to your specific transaction. This means you don’t waste time reading or trying to answer questions that don’t apply to you.
In addition, built-in validation means that if you give an inappropriate or inconsistent answer to a question an on-screen message appears so that you can correct your answer before moving on to the next question.
Automatic calculation of the amount of tax due
For most transactions, when you enter all of the information about the transfer you are dealing with, the amount of tax due is automatically calculated. In-built calculators work out and apply the correct rates based on the type and value of transaction.
You can also pay the SDLT due electronically straight away once you have completed your return online.
Receive your SDLT5 certificate immediately
You don’t need to wait to receive the SDLT certificate in the post.
As soon as you submit your return you receive an electronic SDLT5 certificate which you can print off right away and send to the Land Registry.
No more mistakes, processing delays or lost returns
Filing online eliminates mistakes when completing the form and you won’t need to chase the progress of completed returns or worry about the SDLT5 getting lost in the post.
If you make a mistake or leave out information on a paper return it can take a while to sort out - sometimes weeks - leading to late filing and payment and delays in getting the SDLT5 certificate.
Allows you to prepare your online SDLT return in advance
With online filing you can prepare the return online in advance at a time that suits you, then submit it once the transaction is complete - there’s no rush to get the forms in the post.
You can save on paper too - you won’t need to keep stocks of forms or paying-in slips because each transaction filed online receives a Unique Transaction Reference Number (UTRN) which you use when making a payment.
Filing online is safe and secure
You access the system and your information through the secure Government Gateway using a unique User ID and Password. You may already be familiar with this if you file VAT returns online. All data filed online is encrypted to the highest possible level.
HMRC or commercial options for filing online
As well as HMRC’s Stamp Taxes Online service there are many commercial software providers who provide an alternative service for filing your returns online. Many of these offer additional features not available from HMRC, such as case management and workflow, which help you keep track of your returns. You can choose a provider which best suits your needs.
Follow the link below for a list of commercial software providers whose products have been tested and confirmed as compatible with HMRC’s Online Services.
Contact details for commercial providers of SDLT filing software
Filing SDLT returns online using the HMRC Stamp Taxes online service
SDLT online - how to get started
Whether you decide to use HMRC’s software or a commercial provider you need to register before you can start filing SDLT returns online.
Find out how to register for SDLT online
For a free copy of the HMRC’s SDLT online filing DVD, call the Stamp Taxes helpline on 0845 603 0135.
