The short version: The Real Time Capital Gains Tax Service is HMRC’s system for reporting and paying CGT on property sales quickly, rather than waiting for your annual Self Assessment.
When do you use it?
If you sell a residential property (not your main home) at a profit, you must report and pay CGT within 60 days of completion. This applies to UK residents selling UK property.
How does it work?
You report the sale through your Government Gateway account, calculate the gain, and pay what you owe. HMRC gives you a payment reference. If you already file Self Assessment, you’ll still include the gain on your tax return, but you’ll have already paid the tax.
What if you miss the deadline?
Late reporting can mean penalties and interest. The 60 day clock starts from completion, not exchange, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Does it apply to other assets?
For shares, crypto, and other non-property assets, you still report through Self Assessment by 31st January. The real time service is specifically for residential property.
Sold a property and need to report it? Let us handle the CGT reporting for you.
