Stamp duty planning​

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Stamp duty was originally introduced in England in 1694 as a temporary measure to fund war efforts. Its success as a revenue raising measure has been such that it was extended to Ireland and has survived through the centuries. Its effectiveness as a revenue raising measure is such that in the most recent budget, the current Irish Government has increased stamp duty on non-residential property transactions. Though stamp duty rates might appear low in comparison with other taxes, stamp duty can represent a very real cost to individuals or companies in the absence of any relief. Bradley Tax Consulting assists with:

 

• Structuring disposals and/ or acquisitions of business assets including company shares in a tax efficient manner to minimise the charge to stamp duty.

 

• Intra-group company transfers of assets.

 

• Structuring company re-organisations and amalgamations to avail of stamp duty relief.

 

• Determining whether stamp duty is payable in Ireland in respect of cross-border transactions.

 

• Incorporating businesses and minimising the exposure to stamp duty.

 

• Managing the stamp duty exposure on real estate or property transactions and identifying any relevant reliefs or exemptions.

 

• The stamp duty implications of succession planning including transfers of company assets and businesses to the next generation, and transfers of assets by way of gifts or inheritances whether directly or via trusts.  

 

• Liaising with Revenue on both routine and non-routine matters, including Revenue audits, and seeking stamp duty refunds where applicable.