Last updated: April 2026
Crypto income is different from CGT
Mining, staking, referral rewards, DeFi yields, and service-linked airdrops can be taxable as income at the GBP value when received. Later sales or swaps can still create Capital Gains Tax.
Enter the GBP market value at the date you received each reward.
Income tax on crypto
Keep these records. They are your acquisition costs for Capital Gains Tax when you eventually sell, swap, spend, or gift these assets.
| Asset | Qty | Cost basis | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ETH | 0.8 | £2,000 | Staking rewards |
| BTC | 0.002 | £200 | Referral bonus |
HMRC expects you to keep records of the date received, asset, quantity, GBP value at receipt, and source of the income. Poor records can cause penalties even if your tax calculation is close.
Crypto income normally needs to be reported through Self Assessment unless it has already been fully taxed through payroll. Salary paid in crypto can involve PAYE and National Insurance through the employer.
Usually yes. HMRC treats non-trading staking rewards as income at the GBP value when received, with CGT applying when later disposed of.
Service-linked airdrops are taxable as income. Free airdrops with no service or expectation may not be taxed at receipt, but CGT can apply on disposal.
The GBP value when received is the income amount and usually becomes the cost basis for future CGT when the mined coins are later sold or swapped.
This calculator is designed to help you understand the likely number before you make a decision or start an application.
Your result should be checked against official UK guidance, especially if your circumstances include dependants, exemptions, prior leave, or a complex immigration history.
Treat the figure as a planning tool rather than legal advice. Where the answer affects an application deadline or major payment, speak to an authorised adviser.
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