Guernsey's flat income tax rate of 20% might seem straightforward. However, taking advantage of deductions to reduce Individual Taxes is essential. This detailed guide examines the various tax deductions available to Guernsey residents to minimize their tax liabilities.
Residency and Deductions:
- Principally Resident: Principally residents are taxed on all their income, no matter where it comes from. This category allows for several deductions, including personal allowances, mortgage interest relief, and pension contributions.
- Solely Resident: Solely Residents are taxed on all their income worldwide and can claim the full range of deductions, similar to those classified as "principally resident."
- Resident Only: Residents can pay taxes on all their income worldwide or from Guernsey. If they choose the latter, they can pay a fixed charge on non-Guernsey income (currently £40,000) and won't qualify for most deductions on that part of their income.
Key Deductions and Limitations:
- Personal Allowance (2024): Income earned up to £13,900 is tax-free before the 20% rate is applied. If your total income exceeds £80,000, your Allowance will be reduced by £1 for every £5 earned above the threshold. Alternatively, it can be increased if your spouse transfers any unused allowance.
- Mortgage Interest Relief: You may qualify for partial relief on mortgage interest paid for your primary home in Guernsey. The relief has limits :
- The Qualifying mortgage amount is capped at £400,000.
- The maximum relief is capped at £3,500. This maximum relief will gradually be phased out until it is eliminated by 2027.
- Pension Contributions: Guernsey encourages retirement savings by allowing deductions for contributions to approved pension schemes. Here's the breakdown:
- Contributions exceeding a base amount (currently £2,500) can be deducted, but the maximum deduction is capped at £35,000.
Additional Deductions (Subject to Guernsey Revenue Service Approval):
- Gifts to Charity: You can deduct donations to approved charities from your taxes.
- Medical Expenses: If your medical expenses exceed a certain amount, you may qualify for a Tax deduction.
- Work-Related Expenses: Some work-related expenses may be tax-deductible, but you need approval from the Guernsey Revenue Service beforehand.
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