UK’s HMRC to Mandate Crypto Exchange Transaction Data Collection by 2026

Starting January 2026, HMRC’s new rules require UK crypto exchanges to record and report detailed customer transactions, aligning taxation oversight with global OECD CARF standards.

Summary

HMRC will require UK cryptocurrency exchanges, designated as Reporting Cryptoasset Service Providers, to collect full transaction records from all UK customers starting January 1, 2026. Platforms must retain this information and submit it to HMRC by 2027, enabling cross-checking against tax returns. Sanctions will be imposed on non-compliant exchanges. The regulation aligns with the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework, harmonizing UK tax oversight with jurisdictions including the EU, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea.

Terms & Concepts
  • HMRC (UK tax authority): Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, the UK government department responsible for tax collection and compliance.
  • CARF (Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework): An OECD framework requiring the reporting of cross-border crypto transactions to improve tax transparency.
  • Reporting Cryptoasset Service Providers: Platforms, such as crypto exchanges, classified under HMRC rules to collect and transmit detailed transaction data for tax enforcement.