What rate of Capital Gains Tax will I pay on selling my business or shares?

For most chargeable gains, including shares and second properties, individuals currently pay 18% if the gain falls within their basic rate band and 24% on the portion that falls into higher or additional rate territory, with the rate depending on your total taxable income for the year. If you're selling shares in your own trading company and meet the qualifying conditions (broadly at least 5% ownership and voting rights, and being an officer or employee for at least two years), Business Asset Disposal Relief may apply a lower rate up to a lifetime limit, though that relief rate has been increasing in stages in recent Budgets. Because the numbers and reliefs available are highly fact-specific, this is worth planning with an accountant well before a sale completes rather than after.