The SDLT5 certificate confirms that an SDLT return has been delivered to HMRC for a land transaction. It is not a receipt for the tax — it proves the return was made, so the purchase can be registered.
What is an SDLT5 certificate?
For online returns the SDLT5 is generated as soon as HMRC accepts the return. For paper returns, HMRC posts it once the return has been processed, which takes longer.
When is the SDLT5 issued?
- Online returns: immediately on acceptance, for the agent to download and keep.
- Paper returns: by post after processing.
- No return needed (for example, most purchases under £40,000): there is no SDLT5, and the Land Registry does not need one.
Why HM Land Registry needs it
HM Land Registry will not complete the registration of a purchase in England that needed an SDLT return unless the SDLT5 is provided. Your conveyancer sends it with the application to register you as the owner.
What it shows
- The Unique Transaction Reference Number (UTRN) of the return.
- The property address, the buyer and the effective date.
- A certificate number that HMRC can verify.
What if you lose your SDLT5?
Ask the solicitor or conveyancer who filed the return first — they will normally have a copy. If no copy can be found, contact HMRC's Stamp Taxes helpline with the UTRN and property details.
FileSDLTonline stores the SDLT5 and the UTRN on the case as soon as HMRC accepts the return, so it is always to hand for the Land Registry application.