Shares

Shares represent fractional ownership in a company. Being a shareholder means you own a part of the company's equity proportional to the number of shares you hold. This ownership can yield financial benefits, such as receiving dividends when the company allocates profits to its shareholders, or Capital Gains if the value of the shares increases and you sell them at a profit.

‍

Ways to Acquire Shares:

• Starting a Limited Company: If you establish a company, you can allocate shares to yourself and possibly others.
• Employment Incentives: Some companies offer shares to employees as part of compensation packages, through bonuses or incentive plans.
• Purchasing Shares: Individuals can buy shares through brokers, investment platforms, or apps, participating in the financial markets.

‍

Tax Implications for Shareholders:

• Dividend Tax: Dividends over the annual allowance (£1,000) are subject to tax. The rate depends on your income tax band.
• Capital Gains Tax (CGT): Profits from selling shares that exceed the CGT allowance (£3,000) require you to pay CGT on the excess amount.
• Income Tax and National Insurance: Shares received as part of employment may be subject to Income Tax and National Insurance contributions, depending on the circumstances and whether specific share option schemes are in place.
• Tax-Exempt Accounts: Earnings from shares held within a Stocks & Shares ISA are not subject to tax.
• Pension Investments: Shares held as part of a private pension investment are also free from tax.
• EIS/SEIS Investments: Investments in startups through EIS or SEIS schemes offer significant tax reliefs, encouraging investment in new and growing businesses.

Understanding the implications of share ownership, including potential benefits and tax responsibilities, is crucial for anyone considering investing in shares or receiving them as part of their compensation.