Updated September 2026. This replaces the earlier “avoid ABSD” framing. Stamp-duty liability depends on the facts and law at the date of purchase; obtain legal and tax advice.
ABSD is determined by the acquisition, not by a marketing strategy
IRAS states that ABSD is payable in addition to BSD and is computed on the higher of the purchase price or market value. The applicable rate depends on the buyer profile, property count and acquisition date. Joint buyers are generally assessed using the highest applicable profile for the acquisition.
Current headline rates
For acquisitions on or after 27 April 2023, IRAS lists no ABSD for a Singapore citizen's first residential property, 20% for the second and 30% for the third or subsequent property. Permanent residents, foreigners, entities and trusts have different rates and rules. Read the current IRAS ABSD page before any transaction.
Remissions are conditional
Some married-couple, replacement-home, housing-developer and identifiable-beneficiary trust situations may qualify for remission or refund only when every condition and deadline is met. A change in citizenship or intention after purchase does not automatically change the rate that applied on the acquisition date.
Do not manufacture an arrangement
- Do not transfer ownership or use a nominee merely to obtain a lower rate.
- Document the true beneficial ownership and source of funds.
- Include overseas and inherited-property facts when obtaining advice.
- Budget BSD, ABSD, legal fees and financing together.
- Retain the completed declaration and supporting records required by IRAS.