Disclaimer: this article is for information only. It is not tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional for your situation.
Last updated: 2026-07-16. Starter guide being expanded (country-guide structure; official sources to be strengthened).
Do you pay crypto tax in the United Kingdom?
Yes — the framework is set by HMRC.
How is crypto taxed?
HMRC generally treats crypto as an asset: disposals can trigger Capital Gains Tax; earnings (mining, staking, employment pay in crypto, etc.) can trigger Income Tax. Share pooling / same-day and 30-day (bed and breakfast) rules matter for cost basis.
How specific crypto transactions are taxed
Buying
Buying with GBP is usually not a disposal.
Selling, swapping, spending
Selling, swapping, spending or gifting (with exceptions such as spouse transfers) can be a disposal for CGT.
Transfers between your own wallets
Transfers between your own wallets are usually not disposals if beneficial ownership does not change.
Staking & passive rewards
Staking rewards are often Income Tax on receipt, with later CGT on disposal of the reward units.
Mining
Mining may be Income Tax (or a trade) depending on facts.
When and how to report
Report via Self Assessment where required. UK tax years run 6 April–5 April; filing deadlines typically fall the following January for online Self Assessment.
What records to keep
Full history for share pooling, dates, GBP values, fees and wallet movements. Keep records for the periods HMRC expects.
Software & CryptoTax Digest next steps
Useful links for this jurisdiction:
FAQ
Is there an annual CGT allowance?
Yes — an annual exempt amount applies to capital gains (amount changes by tax year). Only gains above it are charged.
Do exchanges report to HMRC?
Reporting regimes (including international standards) are expanding — keep clean records regardless.
Section outline inspired by leading country crypto-tax guides. Original CryptoTax Digest content — rates, tables and primary sources will be expanded.
