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VCT, EIS and SEIS

This section provides an analysis of the tax reliefs afforded by venture capital trusts, the enterprise investment scheme and seed enterprise investment scheme, and highlights the important differences between the individual schemes.

These schemes provide considerable tax reliefs, although, as ever, professional advice must be sought before making investments that qualify for these reliefs.

Venture capital trusts

A venture capital trust (VCT) is an investment company broadly similar to an investment trust, but what sets it apart?

Enterprise investment scheme

The enterprise investment scheme (EIS) allows certain tax reliefs for investors who subscribe for qualifying shares in qualifying industries.

Seed enterprise investment scheme

The seed enterprise investment scheme (SEIS) is targeted at investors who subscribe for shares in early stage companies where the risk is often greater.

Social investment tax relief scheme

Tax relief for social investment, which is intended to promote investment in social enterprises and help to provide funding.

VCT, EIS and SEIS compared

The reliefs for venture capital trusts, the enterprise investment scheme and the seed enterprise investment scheme are similar in many respects, but there are some significant differences.