Stamford Conveyance Tax: What Sellers Pay at Closing

Selling a home in Stamford? One closing cost that often surprises sellers is the real estate conveyance tax. You want a clear, accurate number well before you accept an offer or sign your Closing Disclosure. This guide breaks down exactly what you will pay in Stamford, how the tax is calculated, when it is due, and how to plan ahead with confidence. Let’s dive in.

What the Stamford conveyance tax is

The Connecticut real estate conveyance tax is collected when your deed is recorded. It has two parts: a state portion set by Connecticut law and a municipal portion set by the City of Stamford. The tax is typically paid by the seller at recording using Form OP‑236, often prepared by your closing attorney. You can review the state’s rules and filing steps in the Department of Revenue Services overview of real estate conveyance taxes.

• Learn the state rules and filing process in the DRS overview: Connecticut real estate conveyance tax information.

Current rates for Stamford sellers

State rates for residential sales

Connecticut applies a marginal schedule to residential sales. Each band is taxed only on the dollars within that band.

• Up to and including $800,000: 0.75%.
• $800,000.01 to $2,500,000: 1.25% on that portion.
• Over $2,500,000: 2.25% on the portion above $2,500,000.

Review the state changes and tier details in the DRS legislative summary: Real Estate Conveyance Tax Change.

Note: Nonresidential property can be taxed at different state rates. See Chapter 223 for definitions and rates by property type: Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 223.

Stamford municipal rates

Stamford’s municipal conveyance tax is set by the Town Clerk as follows:

• 0.35% for the portion of price up to $999,999.99.
• 0.50% for amounts above $1,000,000.

In practice, closings commonly apply this progressively. The first $1,000,000 is taxed at 0.35% and the amount above $1,000,000 is taxed at 0.50%. You can verify the posted rates on the city site and read background on how the progressive structure is applied.

• Municipal rates and clerk info: Stamford Town Clerk, Land Records
• Local coverage of the progressive structure: Stamford Advocate report

How to estimate your tax

Use this quick process to get a solid estimate.

1. Identify your expected contract price.
2. Apply the state marginal rates to each applicable tier, then sum the state total. Use the DRS summary for the exact bands: state tiered rates.
3. Apply Stamford’s municipal rates, which are commonly calculated progressively. First $1,000,000 at 0.35%, the amount above $1,000,000 at 0.50%.
4. Add recording charges. Stamford lists $70 for the first page, $5 for each additional page, plus a $2 conveyance surcharge for consideration over $2,000. See the Town Clerk page for current fees: Stamford Town Clerk.
5. Have your attorney finalize Form OP‑236 and the exact payment due at recording.

Examples for typical Stamford sales

These illustrations show how the state and municipal pieces add up. Always confirm final figures on your Closing Disclosure.

Example A: $500,000 sale price

• State tax: 0.75% of $500,000 = $3,750. See the DRS tiered schedule.
• Municipal tax: 0.35% of $500,000 = $1,750. See Stamford Town Clerk rates.
• Estimated conveyance tax total: $5,500, plus recording charges.

Example B: $1,200,000 sale price

• State tax:
  • 0.75% on first $800,000 = $6,000.
  • 1.25% on next $400,000 = $5,000.
  • State total = $11,000. See the DRS tiered schedule.
• Municipal tax (progressive):
  • 0.35% on first $1,000,000 = $3,500.
  • 0.50% on remaining $200,000 = $1,000.
  • Municipal total = $4,500. See Stamford Town Clerk rates.
• Estimated conveyance tax total: $15,500, plus recording charges.

Example C: $3,000,000 sale price

• State tax:
  • 0.75% on first $800,000 = $6,000.
  • 1.25% on next $1,700,000 = $21,250.
  • 2.25% on remaining $500,000 = $11,250.
  • State total = $38,500. See the DRS tiered schedule.
• Municipal tax (progressive):
  • 0.35% on first $1,000,000 = $3,500.
  • 0.50% on remaining $2,000,000 = $10,000.
  • Municipal total = $13,500. See Stamford Town Clerk rates.
• Estimated conveyance tax total: about $52,000, plus recording charges.

Who pays, when it is due, and filing

In Connecticut, the seller is generally responsible for the conveyance tax, although buyers and sellers can agree otherwise in the contract. The tax and Form OP‑236 are due when the deed is recorded, and the Town Clerk will not record without the completed return and payment. Many closings use the state’s electronic filing system, and closing attorneys typically prepare and submit the form.

• State filing guidance and OP‑236 details: DRS conveyance tax information.

Exemptions and the high‑value credit

Some transfers are exempt from the conveyance tax, such as certain deeds between spouses, qualifying nonprofit transfers, and specific court‑ordered conveyances. Review examples and documentation needs in the state’s backgrounder: OLR report on exemptions.

For high‑value residential sales, the 2.25% tier applies only to the portion of price above $2,500,000. Connecticut law provides a state income tax credit that can help eligible sellers who remain Connecticut residents recoup the amount paid at the 2.25% rate over time. See the DRS summary of the rule: Real Estate Conveyance Tax Change.

Smart steps to avoid surprises

• Ask your agent or attorney for a written estimate of state and municipal conveyance taxes early in the listing process.
• Confirm how Stamford’s municipal rate is applied on your sale price and how rounding works on Form OP‑236.
• If you expect a price above $2.5 million, discuss the state credit timing with your tax professional.
• If you believe your transfer is exempt, gather supporting documents in advance for the filing.

Work with a CT‑savvy listing advisor

A precise tax estimate and a smooth filing process can keep your closing on track. With dual NY and CT expertise and a process‑driven approach, Ellen Schwartz helps Stamford sellers prepare accurate net sheets, coordinate with closing attorneys, and navigate Form OP‑236 with confidence. When you are ready to sell, connect with Ellen Schwartz for clear guidance and a refined marketing strategy.

FAQs

What is the Stamford municipal conveyance tax rate?

• Stamford posts 0.35% up to $999,999.99 and 0.50% on amounts above $1,000,000, which is commonly applied progressively at closing. See the Stamford Town Clerk page.

Who pays the Connecticut conveyance tax in a Stamford sale?

• The seller is generally responsible at recording, although the contract can allocate costs differently. See the DRS guidance.

When is the conveyance tax due for Stamford sellers?

• The return and payment are due when the deed is recorded with the Town Clerk, and recording will not occur without them. See the DRS overview.

How do state rates apply to high‑value sales?

• Connecticut uses a marginal schedule for residential sales, with 2.25% applied only to the portion above $2,500,000. See the DRS legislative summary.

Are any Stamford home sales exempt from the conveyance tax?

• Certain transfers qualify for exemptions under state law, including some intra‑family and nonprofit transfers, with documentation required. Review examples in the OLR exemptions report.

Which form is used to pay the Connecticut conveyance tax?

• Sellers file Form OP‑236, often through the state’s electronic system, typically handled by the closing attorney. See DRS filing information.