# CARF reporting begins January 2026

CARF reporting (1 January 2026): UK crypto service providers must collect customer identity and transaction data for HMRC under the Cryptoasset Reporting Framework. This supports international tax transparency — it does not replace your Self Assessment duty. See our CARF hub and gov.uk guidance.

## Why CARF started in 2026

The UK implemented the OECD Cryptoasset Reporting Framework through the Finance (No. 2) Act 2024. HMRC published technical guidance for service providers. The goal is automatic exchange of transaction data between tax authorities — similar in spirit to CRS for bank accounts.

## What providers must do

In-scope UK exchanges, brokers and custodians collect identity and transaction data throughout 2026 and submit annual reports. Data includes transaction types and sterling values where available.

## What you should do

Keep your own CSV exports and wallet records. File Self Assessment accurately. If you have undeclared tax from earlier years, use HMRC's crypto disclosure service before enquiry letters arrive.

## Sources

- [Primary source](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cryptoassets-reporting-framework)

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— Digital Assets UK (https://digital-assets.co.uk/news/carf-starts-2026/), reviewed 2026-01-01. Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cryptoassets-reporting-framework