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Do You Pay Tax on Depop Sales in the UK? (2026/27 Rules)

Everything you need to know about the HMRC 'Side Hustle Tax' rules for Depop. Learn if you owe tax on your vintage sales and how the £1,000 allowance works.

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TaxWiz Editorial

Tax Content Writer • Modified 2026-04-13

Depop Profit Checker

How much of your vintage flip actually belongs to the taxman? Find out in 60 seconds.

The Depop Data Sharing

If you have a thriving Depop shop, you've probably heard about the "reporting crackdown."

Here is the truth: The tax laws didn't change, but the data collection did. Depop now shares your sales activity directly with HMRC if you reach certain levels.

The Short Answer

You only pay tax if you are 'trading' (reselling for profit).

If you're just selling your own old clothes for less than you paid, you're not trading. HMRC is looking for people who buy items at thrift stores or car boot sales specifically to flip them for more money on Depop.


The £1,000 Rule

Even if you are a dedicated vintage reseller, you still get a "free pass" every year.

The 'Safe Zone' Rules:

  • Under £1,000 (Gross): You keep everything tax-free. You don't even need to tell HMRC you exist.
  • Over £1,000 (Gross): You MUST register for Self Assessment, even if your actual profit is zero.

Warning: HMRC looks at Revenue (total money coming in before fees) to decide if you need to register. Even if you spent more than you earned, you still have a legal obligation to tell them if your total sales crossed £1,000.


Are You a Business?

HMRC uses the "Badges of Trade" to decide if you're a casual seller or a Depop business.

Real Example: Maya

Maya sources vintage 90s pieces from thrift shops specifically to resell on Depop for a profit.

Stock Purchases-£550
Depop Sales (Gross)£1,100
Depop Fees & Postage-£200
Taxable Profit£350

Takeaway: Maya is TRADING. Because she buys items with the 'intent to profit,' she must register if her total sales go over £1,000.


Depop vs. Vinted Rules

The rules for Depop are exactly the same as the Vinted Tax Rules.

Both platforms are classified as "Digital Operators" under the new HMRC regulations. If you use both platforms, remember that your £1,000 Trading Allowance is combined across all platforms. You don't get £1,000 for each.


Your Next Step

Staying on top of your Depop taxes is easier when you have a roadmap.

Your Seller Roadmap

  1. Download our Allowable Expenses checklist for resellers.
  2. If you've crossed £1,000, read our How to Register guide.
  3. Check the Self Assessment Hub for deadlines and FAQs.
Go to Seller Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. From January 2024, Depop is legally required to share your sales data with HMRC if you make 30+ sales or earn over €2,000 in a calendar year.
If you're just selling your own old clothes for less than you paid, you have no profit and therefore zero tax to pay. HMRC only cares if you are buying items specifically to resell them for more.
Yes. If you're classified as a trader, you only pay tax on your final profit. You can deduct Depop's fees, payment processing fees, and postage from your total revenue.

Tax Disclaimer: TaxWiz provides general educational information and guides for UK residents. While we strive to maintain accuracy for the 2026/27 tax year, tax rules are subject to change. This content does not constitute regulated financial, legal, or tax advice. For complex situations, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified UK accountant. View our full Disclaimer.