Stamp Duty on Inherited Property: When Do You Pay?

If you've inherited a property, you're dealing with enough already. The good news: you don't pay stamp duty when you inherit. But there are tax implications if you sell, rent, or transfer the property later. Here's what you need to know.

Inheriting: No Stamp Duty

When property passes to you through inheritance (under a will or intestacy), no stamp duty is payable. The transfer is exempt. However, you may owe Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) — also known as inheritance tax — on the value of the property if it exceeds your tax-free threshold.

Use our Inheritance Tax Calculator to check whether you owe CAT, and read our full guide on inheritance tax on property in Ireland.

Selling an Inherited Property: Stamp Duty for the Buyer

When you sell an inherited property, the buyer pays stamp duty at the standard rates (1% on the first €1m, 2% on the next €500k, 6% above €1.5m). You as the seller don't pay stamp duty — but you may owe Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on any increase in value since the date of inheritance.

The CGT + CAT Interaction

This is where it gets complex. If you paid CAT on the inheritance and then sell the property within 4 years, you may be able to claim a credit for the CAT paid against your CGT liability. This prevents double taxation on the same gain. Beyond 4 years, the credit is no longer available.

Renting an Inherited Property

If you decide to rent the inherited property instead of selling, you'll need a BER certificate before advertising (book at Homerating.ie), RTB registration, and to declare rental income on your annual tax return. Use our Landlord Tax Calculator to see your net rental income after all deductions.