ABSD refunds are available in three scenarios as of 2026: (1) married couples disposing of an existing property within 6 months of the new purchase, (2) ABSD Trust refund where the beneficial owner's individual rate is lower, and (3) cancellation of the property purchase before completion. Refund applications are submitted via myTax Portal.
When ABSD is refundable
| Scenario | Refund window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Married couple ABSD remission | 6 months from purchase (or TOP) | Both must be co-owners; SC + SC, SC + PR, or SC + foreigner |
| ABSD Trust refund | 6 months from trust ABSD payment | Identifiable beneficial owner; proper trust deed |
| Purchase cancellation | Within 14 days of cancellation | Sale aborted before completion; doc voided |
The married-couple remission is the most common refund scenario. Source: IRAS remissions framework.
How to claim a refund
- Sell the existing property within 6 months: Conveyancing completion is the trigger.
- Log into myTax Portal: Submit the ABSD refund application form. Source: myTax Portal.
- Attach supporting documents: Proof of sale (completion statement), marriage certificate, and both purchase agreements.
- Wait 30 working days: IRAS processes refunds typically within 4–6 weeks. Funds are credited to the buyer's designated bank account.
Worked example: Couple selling HDB after condo purchase
| Date | Event | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Mar 2026 | New condo OTP exercised | S$1,500,000 purchase |
| 15 Mar 2026 | ABSD paid (20% SC second) | S$300,000 outflow |
| 20 Aug 2026 | HDB flat sold | S$680,000 inflow |
| 1 Sep 2026 | Refund application submitted | — |
| 15 Oct 2026 | S$300,000 refund credited | S$300,000 inflow |
Net ABSD cost: S$0. The couple held the S$300,000 in escrow-like form for approximately 7 months.
When refunds are denied
- 6-month window missed: Hard deadline; IRAS does not grant extensions.
- Ownership structure mismatch: New property owned solely by one spouse, while old property was joint — disqualifies the remission.
- Marriage dissolved: Divorce during the 6-month window can complicate eligibility.
- Documentation gaps: Missing completion statements or marriage proof slow processing or result in denial.
For the broader Singapore ABSD framework see the complete ABSD guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can the 6-month window be extended for hardship?
No. IRAS does not grant extensions for hardship. The 6-month window is statutory.
What if my HDB takes longer than 6 months to complete sale?
The 6-month window is from purchase date to sale completion date. If HDB completion is delayed beyond 6 months, the refund is forfeited.
Is the refund taxable?
No. ABSD refunds are not taxable income — they are returns of duty already paid.