Share scheme returns: dividend taxation changes
As annual return time arrives for share schemes, it's important to remember the changes that apply to the taxation of dividends. As of 6 April this year, there is no longer any such thing as a dividend tax credit. The tax treatment relating to dividends paid to UK resident individuals is now as follows:
- First £5,000 of dividends: tax free
- Dividend income exceeding £5,000 is taxed according to the
individual's own tax rate:
- Basic rate taxpayers – 7.5%
- Higher rate taxpayers – 32.5%
- Additional rate tax payers – 38.1%
Note that the first £5,000 of dividends is free from tax but
the amount is still included in the taxpayer's annual income. This can make a
difference to the rate of tax charged on dividends paid above the £5,000 exempt
amount. More information is available from HMRC.
If you need guidance on preparing annual returns for your share schemes please contact RM2.