From 2024, digital platforms like Amazon and eBay are required to report seller information to HMRC—unless the seller made fewer than 30 sales and earned less than €2,000 (around £1,700) in a year.

These new rules don’t introduce any new tax obligations—they simply give HMRC more data. However, if you’ve been selling online and not declaring taxable income, HMRC is now more likely to find out.

Clearing Out vs. Trading

There’s been a lot of confusion online about these changes, with some people worrying they’ll have to pay tax on selling second-hand items. But that’s not necessarily the case.

HMRC has clarified:

• If you are selling unwanted personal belongings occasionally, you likely won’t need to pay tax.
• If you are selling regularly with the aim of making a profit, this could count as trading, meaning you may have tax obligations.

What about the £1000 trading allowance?

• If your total sales from trading are £1,000 or less in a tax year, you don’t need to declare it.
• If you earn more than £1,000 from trading, you must declare it on a self-assessment tax return.

If you’re unsure whether your sales count as trading or need help with tax reporting, get in touch.