FAQ: How is the STC credit calculated?

The STC credit is comprised of two possible sources: Any unused STC credits of the company brought forward from the final dividend cycle under the STC system, and Any new pro rata portion of any STC credit attaching to dividends accruing to the company under the Dividends Tax system.

FAQ: What is the main difference between Dividends Tax and STC?

The main difference lies in who is liable for the tax. Dividends Tax is a tax levied on shareholders (beneficial owners of dividends) on receipt of dividends, whereas STC is a tax levied on companies on the declaration of dividends. There is an exception to this basic Dividends Tax rule in the case of a […]

FAQ: What is the rate of Dividends Tax?

Dividends tax was introduced at a rate of 15% when it came into effect on 1 April 2012. The rate was increased to 20% in respect of any dividend paid on or after 22 February 2017 (irrespective of when it was declared).

FAQ: What is a dividend?

A dividend is defined in section 1 of the Act, but in essence is any payment by a company for the benefit of a shareholder in respect of a share in that company (excluding the return of contributed tax capital, i.e. consideration received by a company for the issue of shares).

FAQ: Who is liable for the Dividends Tax?

The beneficial owner of the dividend is liable for the Dividends Tax – normally this would be the shareholder. However, if the particular dividend consists of a distribution of an asset in specie the liability falls on the company paying the dividend (similar to the situation under STC).