Tax for Vinted Sellers
Most Vinted sellers are clearing out their own wardrobes, and that's usually not taxable at all. The questions that matter are whether you've crossed into trading and what those HMRC nudge letters actually mean.
Selling your own clothes isn't taxable
Selling your own used clothing, usually for less than you paid, is generally not trading and not taxable. The "badges of trade" separate decluttering from running a business.
There is no tax on simply selling off your own second-hand belongings.
When it becomes a business
If you buy items specifically to resell at a profit, or sell with regularity and intent to make money, you are trading and the income becomes taxable.
Buying to resell for profit is trading; clearing your own wardrobe is not.
The £1,000 trading allowance
If you are trading, the first £1,000 of sales income is covered by the trading allowance. Once you exceed £1,000 you must register for Self Assessment and report your income.
Why HMRC sent you a letter
Vinted now reports seller income to HMRC under the digital platform rules. A nudge letter means HMRC has data, not that you automatically owe tax — check your position.
Platform reporting creates no new tax; it just makes existing obligations visible.
Occasional selling vs a side hustle
Occasional sales below £1,000 typically need no report, but a steady reselling side hustle above that threshold does. The pattern and purpose of your sales are what count.
If you grow into a real business
Should reselling become a substantial business, the usual rules apply — including VAT registration once taxable turnover passes £90,000 on a rolling 12-month basis.
Common questions
Do I owe tax for selling my old clothes on Vinted?
Usually not. Selling your own used clothing, often at a loss, is generally not trading and not taxable. It only changes if you start buying to resell for profit.
What does the HMRC nudge letter mean?
Vinted now reports seller income to HMRC, which sends nudge letters where its data suggests you should check your position. It is not an automatic tax bill.
When do I need to report my Vinted income?
If you are trading and your sales income exceeds the £1,000 trading allowance, you must register for Self Assessment and report it. Below that, usually you need not.
Get expert eyes on your tax
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For guidance only — this factsheet does not constitute professional advice and is not a substitute for advice based on your specific circumstances. Whilst every care has been taken in its preparation, it may contain errors for which we cannot be responsible. Figures are for the 2025/26UK tax year (England, Wales & Northern Ireland) and may change. Last reviewed 6 June 2026.