The CGT annual exempt amount is the level of capital gains a person can make each tax year before capital gains tax applies. For 2026-27 it is 3,000 GBP (HMRC) for individuals, and gains above it are taxed at rates set by HMRC.
In one line: The CGT annual exempt amount is the yearly capital gains a person can realise tax-free.
How the CGT annual exempt amount works
The exemption applies to total net gains in a tax year after losses. Only the amount above it is charged, and unused exemption cannot be carried forward to a later year.
An investor who sells shares for a 5,000 GBP gain in 2026-27 deducts the 3,000 GBP (HMRC) exempt amount, leaving 2,000 GBP taxable. Capital gains tax is then charged on that 2,000 GBP at the applicable rate.
Gains on assets within an ISA or pension are outside capital gains tax entirely, and a main home is usually covered by private residence relief, so the exemption mostly matters for taxable investments and second properties.
Annual exempt amount vs the dividend allowance
The annual exempt amount shelters capital gains, which arise when an asset is sold for more than it cost. The dividend allowance shelters dividend income, which is a different category taxed under separate rules.
An investor can use both in the same year, one against gains on disposals and the other against dividend income, because they apply to distinct types of return.
Primary source: GOV.UK: Capital Gains Tax allowances