Independent UK guidance
The UK guide to owning digital assets — tax, regulation, and safe custody.
Never owned crypto? Start with our plain-English basics. When you are ready, read simple guides on tax, staying safe, and UK rules — all checked against gov.uk, HMRC and FCA sources.
Information only · Not financial advice · Last reviewed June 2026
New here?
No jargon — start with the basics
We explain blockchain, wallets and bitcoin in everyday language before you read anything about tax or regulation.
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Essential guides
The basics
What are digital assets?
A plain-English introduction for people who have never owned crypto — what digital assets are, everyday examples, and what makes them different from money in your bank.
The basics
Should you invest?
FCA-aligned checklist — debt, emergency fund, FOMO and whether crypto fits your situation.
FCA & regulation
Check FCA register
Verify a UK crypto firm is on the FCA register before you send money. Plain-English walkthrough with what MLR registration means and what it does not.
Tax & HMRC
When to report
UK reporting rules for 2025/26 — £3,000 CGT allowance, £50,000 proceeds threshold, income triggers and CARF.
Buying digital assets
How to buy crypto
A step-by-step guide for beginners — choosing a safe app, paying in pounds, and keeping records for tax.
Scams & fraud
All scam types
Every major UK crypto scam explained — phishing, pig butchering, clone firms, fake apps and recovery fraud.
Topics
Guide categories
The basics
New to digital assets? Start here — plain-English explanations with no jargon.
Tax & HMRC
Capital Gains Tax, Income Tax, Self Assessment and record-keeping for UK cryptoasset holders.
FCA & regulation
How the Financial Conduct Authority regulates crypto firms, promotions and consumer protection in the UK.
Buying digital assets
Using FCA-registered exchanges, understanding risks, and what UK law requires of providers.
Storage & custody
Hot wallets, cold storage, exchanges and inheritance — keeping cryptoassets secure under UK law.
Scams & fraud
Recognising crypto scams, reporting to Action Fraud and recovering funds where UK rules allow.
Asset explainers
Plain-English introductions to Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins, NFTs and other token types under UK law.
Wills & inheritance
Digital assets in your will, Inheritance Tax and what executors need to know under UK law.
Regional notes
Scotland, Wales and other UK regional differences for tax and language.
Quick answers
Common questions
What are digital assets in simple terms?
Digital assets are valuable items that exist online — like bitcoin, digital collectibles (NFTs), or tokens in an app. You own them through an account or wallet, not as paper or coins. They are legal to own in the UK but risky, and not the same as money in your bank.
Do I pay tax on cryptocurrency in the UK?
You may pay Capital Gains Tax when you dispose of cryptoassets — by selling, swapping, spending or gifting them. You may pay Income Tax when you receive crypto as earnings, mining rewards or certain staking income. You must keep records and report to HMRC when your gains exceed the annual exempt amount or you have income to declare.
Is cryptocurrency legal in the UK?
Yes. Owning, buying and selling cryptoassets is legal in the United Kingdom. Firms providing services must comply with FCA anti-money-laundering registration and financial promotions rules. You must also comply with HMRC tax obligations.
What is the FCA crypto register?
The FCA maintains a register of firms approved to conduct cryptoasset activities under the Money Laundering Regulations. Check the Financial Services Register before using an exchange or custodian.
What is the CGT allowance for crypto in 2025/26?
Crypto gains count towards your overall Capital Gains Tax annual exempt amount, which is £3,000 for the 2025/26 tax year. There is no separate crypto-specific allowance.
Is bitcoin legal tender in the UK?
No. Legal tender in the UK is pound sterling (banknotes and coins issued by the Bank of England and authorised banks). Bitcoin is a cryptoasset, not official currency.
Updates
News & regulation
Full FCA crypto regime from October 2027
Parliament confirmed the scope of regulated crypto activities; authorisation applications open September 2026.
CARF reporting begins January 2026
UK crypto service providers must start collecting customer data for HMRC under the Cryptoasset Reporting Framework.
Property (Digital Assets etc) Act 2025
England and Wales now clarify that digital assets can be property for wills and ownership.
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Support Digital AssetsFAQ
What is a digital asset?
Something valuable that exists online — like bitcoin or a digital collectible. You can own it, send it or sell it through an app. It is not the same as pounds in your bank.
Is Digital Assets free?
Yes. Every guide is free to read with no sign-up. We publish general information only — not regulated financial advice.
Do you give personal financial advice?
No. For a personal recommendation, speak to an FCA-regulated adviser or contact MoneyHelper for free guidance.
Is cryptocurrency legal in the UK?
Yes. Owning and trading crypto is legal. You must comply with tax rules and use FCA-registered firms where required.
Can I lose all my money?
Yes. Crypto prices can collapse. Scams are common. There is usually no compensation if something goes wrong.