
Navigating the New HMRC Clampdown: What UK Marketplace Sellers Need to Know
The landscape of e-commerce in the United Kingdom is facing significant shifts, with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) intensifying its scrutiny of online marketplace sellers. This move, part of a larger initiative backed by substantial government investment, aims to tighten tax compliance. For craft sellers, understanding these changes is key to navigating the new regulatory environment.
Understanding the Clampdown
The HMRC’s clampdown is a result of increased government focus and funding – a clear indication of the seriousness with which the UK government is approaching tax evasion in the digital economy. Significant resources are being allocated to ensure that even small-scale sellers on platforms like Etsy, eBay, Depop, Vinted and Amazon are transparent about their incomes and pay appropriate taxes.
What This Means for Sellers
The threshold for when you might get flagged by HMRC for your sales on online marketplaces depends on several factors, including the nature of your activities (whether it’s considered a hobby or a business) and the total income generated from these sales.
- Trading Allowance:
In the UK, there’s a “trading allowance” of £1,000 per tax year for small amounts of income from self-employment or casual services. This means if your total trading income is less than £1,000 (before deducting expenses) in a tax year, it doesn’t need to be reported to HMRC.
- Hobby vs Business:
If your selling is classified as a hobby (i.e., you occasionally sell items you no longer need), and you only sell occasionally, you might not be considered as trading, and therefore, your sales may not be subject to tax. However, if you are buying items with the intention of selling them for profit and frequently, or if you make items to sell, this is likely to be considered a business. Setting up as a business is fairly simple and costs just over £10 a year via Companies House.
- VAT Threshold:
If your turnover exceeds the VAT threshold (£85,000 as of the last update in April 2023), you’ll need to register for VAT.
- Income Tax:
If your income from selling (after deducting allowable expenses) is more than your trading allowance, you’ll need to report this income to HMRC, and it could be subject to Income Tax and National Insurance contributions.
Remember, it’s not just about the amount sold but also the frequency and intention behind the sales. If you are regularly selling items, even for amounts under the trading allowance, it might still be considered a business by HMRC.Â
A Question of Fairness
This stringent approach, however, raises questions about fairness, especially in light of recent discussions about the potential removal of inheritance tax, and the current cost of living crisis. Critics argue that while the government is investing nearly £37 million into heavily tracking small-scale e-commerce earnings, there seems to be a simultaneous move towards easing taxation on potentially larger, unearned wealth transfers. Neither chasing those larger organisations who evade paying their tax. This juxtaposition has sparked fierce debate about equality and equity in the tax system.
Tips for Compliance
Expect more rigorous monitoring of online sales. Be prepared for possible audits and ensure compliance with tax laws. We recommend you keep a paper trail and maintain meticulous records of all business transactions (sales and expenses). Stay informed about various tax obligations, including VAT and income tax.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can help you understand your tax obligations and ensure you remain compliant with HMRC regulations.
The HMRC’s increased focus on marketplace sellers, supported by significant government investment, underscores the importance of tax compliance in the digital economy. However, the contrast with broader tax policies, such as those concerning inheritance tax, raises concerns about fairness and equity. For craft sellers, navigating these changes requires staying informed, organized, and proactive. By doing so, you contribute to a fair marketplace and ensure the sustainability of your business.