Understanding dividend tax is important for anyone who receives income from shares in a company. Dividends are taxed differently from salary, pensions and other forms of income, with their own allowances and tax rates.

For the 2026-27 tax year, individuals do not pay tax on dividend income that falls within their Personal Allowance of £12,570. In addition, there is a separate dividend allowance of £500. Dividend income received above these allowances is generally subject to tax.

The rate of tax payable depends on the individual's overall level of taxable income. For 2026-27, dividends falling within the basic rate band are taxed at 10.75%, those within the higher rate band at 35.75% and those within the additional rate band at 39.35%.

To determine the applicable rate, dividend income is added to other sources of taxable income. As a result, dividends can push an individual into a higher tax band, and different portions of the dividend income may be taxed at different rates.

Where total dividend income is £10,000 or less, an individual may ask HMRC to adjust their tax code so that any tax due is collected through their wages or pension. Alternatively, the income can be reported through a self-assessment tax return. There is normally no requirement to notify HMRC where dividend income is covered entirely by the dividend allowance.

Individuals who receive more than £10,000 in dividends must complete a self-assessment tax return. Those who do not normally file a return must register with HMRC by 5 October following the end of the tax year in which the dividend income was received.