What is ACT stamp duty?
Stamp duty in ACT is a state government tax applied to the sale or transfer of many personal and business-related assets, most commonly real estate. When buying or otherwise taking possession of homes or land, it’s referred to as the Australian Capital Territory land transfer duty.
How much is stamp duty in ACT?
Each state in Australia applies stamp duty differently, with individual rates, purchase thresholds, and exemptions that eligible buyers will need to understand how to calculate payable duty or apply for concessions when purchasing a home.
The stamp duty you will pay may vary, depending on:
- The state or territory the property is located in
- The cost of the purchase
- The type of property you purchase
- Your residency status
- Your income and partner’s income
- Your eligibility as a first-home buyer
- Your eligibility for pensioner concessions
You can use the ACT stamp duty calculator to estimate how much duty may be payable.
Generally, first-home buyers and properties under $500,000 in value will attract the lowest amount of stamp duty across all states of Australia.
Who pays stamp duty in ACT?
The person or business purchasing the property or receiving the transfer of assets will be liable to pay stamp duty in NT. As this can often be a significant additional cost on the purchase price of property, it’s important to estimate the transfer tax on properties so you can clearly understand your financial obligations.
How do you pay ACT stamp duty?
Stamp duty can be paid by direct deposit, cheque, credit card, and other major payment options. In most cases, you will receive a notice from your state government office, delivered to the address of the purchased property or by e-mail. This letter will often contain:
- The amount of stamp duty payable
- Details on the tax and how it was calculated
- Concessions or exemptions included in the calculation
- Payment options
- Payment due date
- Information regarding late payments and associated penalties or charges
- Reference details for the notice and payment
Payment due dates can be anywhere between the day of settlement and up to three months following the purchase of property.
Stamp Duty Calculator ACT
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Stamp Duty
| Purchase price of property | Stamp Duty payable |
|---|---|
| Up to $200,000 | 1.2% per dollar up to $200,000 |
| $200,001 - $300,000 | $2,400 plus 2.2% per dollar over $200,000 |
| $300,001 - $500,000 | $4,600 plus 3.4% per dollar over $300,000 |
| $500,001 - $750,000 | $11,400 plus 4.32% per dollar over $500,000 |
| $750,001 - $1,000,000 | $22,200 plus 5.9% per dollar over $750,000 |
| $1,000,001 - $1,455,000 | $36,950 plus 6.4% per dollar over $1,000,000 |
| More than $1,455,000 | 4.54% of the property value |
Payment Due Date
ACT stamp duty is generally paid within 30 days from settlement.
- The buyer must submit an application for a Notice of Assessment to Canberra Access no later than 14 days after settlement
- Once the buyer receives the Notice of Assessment, they will need to make payment within 14 days
Exemptions
The ACT offers the Home Buyer Concession Scheme as a possible exemption to stamp duty when buying new properties, established properties, or land. Eligibility is dependent on a number of conditions, including:
- No held interest in any land in the last two years
- Need to live in the property for a minimum of one year after purchase
- Cannot have joint income exceeding $160,000 per year, or $163,330 with children
The ACT also provides concessions for pensioners and individuals living with a long-term and permanent disability
Commercial properties with a dutiable value of $1,500,000 are exempt from stamp duty in the ACT.
You can visit the ACT Revenue site to learn more about thresholds, exemptions, and how to contact your state office.
Other Money.com.au Calculators
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