Stamp duty
Stamp duty was invented by the Dutch in 1624 and first levied in the UK in 1694. It was so successful that it remained, even when its imposition caused riots in the American colonies during 1765.
Stamp duty is payable on documents which transfer ownership of an asset (e.g. on the sale of a house or disposal of shares). It is also payable on the grant of a lease.
For 1999/2000 stamp duty paid totalled £3.7 billion. It is the oldest tax administered by HM Revenue & Customs.
This page was last reviewed on 03 April 2006. The information may not reflect changes in legislation made after this date.
This is only a guide to your tax position and should not be relied on in place of professional accounting or tax advice. Any calculated figures are illustrative and are based on the data you provided.
