Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD)

Tax payable by the property buyer to IRAS, on the higher of purchase price or market value. Progressive rates from 1% up to 6% (rates effective from Feb 2023).

How BSD is calculated

Buyer's Stamp Duty is a progressive tax payable to IRAS within 14 days of signing the Option to Purchase. It's calculated on the higher of the property purchase price or market value — usually the same number, but valuation can override if a buyer overpays significantly.

BSD applies to all property buyers regardless of citizenship or property count. ABSD layers on top for second-and-subsequent purchases, PRs, foreigners, and entities.

Current residential BSD bands (Feb 2023)

First S$180,000: 1%

Next S$180,000 (up to S$360k): 2%

Next S$640,000 (up to S$1m): 3%

Next S$500,000 (up to S$1.5m): 4%

Next S$1,500,000 (up to S$3m): 5%

Above S$3,000,000: 6%

Worked examples

S$1,000,000 property: S$1,800 + S$3,600 + S$19,200 = S$24,600 BSD.

S$2,000,000 property: S$1,800 + S$3,600 + S$30,000 + S$25,000 + S$30,000 = S$90,400 BSD.

S$5,000,000 property: standard bands up to S$3m (S$144,600) + 6% on the next S$2m (S$120,000) = S$264,600 BSD.

Non-residential property

Commercial and industrial properties use a different BSD schedule: 1% on the first S$180,000, 2% on the next S$180,000, 3% on the next S$640,000, 4% on the next S$500,000, and 5% beyond.

Non-residential property is exempt from ABSD — one reason high-net-worth buyers sometimes prefer commercial units over investment condos.

Frequently asked questions

What are the current BSD rates for residential property?

From Feb 2023: 1% on the first S$180,000, 2% on the next S$180,000 (up to S$360k), 3% on the next S$640,000 (up to S$1m), 4% on the next S$500,000 (up to S$1.5m), 5% on the next S$1.5m (up to S$3m), and 6% above S$3m.

Is BSD calculated on price or valuation?

On the higher of the two. If you pay S$2M for a property valued at S$1.8M, BSD is calculated on S$2M. The valuation only kicks in if you overpay materially above market.

When is BSD due?

Within 14 days of signing the Option to Purchase. Late payment incurs penalties. Most buyers fund BSD from CPF Ordinary Account if available, otherwise cash.

Does BSD apply to HDB flats?

Yes — BSD applies to all residential property regardless of type. HDB BTO buyers pay BSD on the subsidised purchase price. ABSD remission for citizens (1st property) means BSD is the main stamp duty for most BTO buyers.

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