Cryptoassets

Cryptoassets for individuals by HMRC

The December 2018 published paper by UK’s HM Revenue and Customs that sets out HMRC’s view on how individuals owning cryptoassets are taxed.

UK’s HM Revenue and Customs published a paper on the 19th of December 2018 that sets out HMRC’s view – based on the law as it stands at the date of publication – about how individuals who have cryptoassets are taxed.

Cryptoassets are a relatively new type of asset that have become more prevalent in recent years. New technology has led to cryptoassets being created in a wide range of forms and for various different uses.

The cryptoassets sector is fast-moving and developing all the time. The terminology, types of coins, tokens and transactions can vary. The tax treatment of cryptoassets continues to develop due to the evolving nature of the underlying technology and the areas in which cryptoassets are used. As such, HMRC will look at the facts of each case and apply the relevant tax provisions according to what has actually taken place (rather than by reference to terminology). Our views may evolve further as the sector develops.