Which group is liable for CGT in the UK?

Liability for Capital Gains Tax (CGT) in the UK primarily falls on UK residents. This includes individuals and businesses that are considered UK tax residents. The UK tax system imposes CGT on individuals and entities when they dispose of certain assets, realizing a gain on those assets. This tax is applicable on the profits made from the sale, transfer, or exchange of personal-owned or business-owned assets that exceed certain thresholds.

UK residents are subject to CGT on their global capital gains, meaning they are taxed on gains made from assets both inside and outside the UK. In contrast, non-residents may have limited CGT obligations, primarily depending on specific circumstances, such as owning UK property or certain types of assets.

The decision to restrict CGT liability to UK residents aligns with the principles of residency and taxation, ensuring that those who live in the UK and benefit from its services contribute to the revenue through CGT. As such, understanding the residency status is crucial for determining tax liability in the context of capital gains.