Self-employed and limited company crypto in the UK
Quick answer: If you trade crypto commercially — market making, mining at scale, NFT business — profits may be trading income (sole trader) or Corporation Tax (Ltd). VAT generally does not apply to exchange token transactions. Register for Self Assessment or Corporation Tax returns. Separate business records are mandatory.
Buying and selling crypto as a business differs from personal investing. HMRC applies trading income rules and potentially Corporation Tax.
Sole trader vs personal investing
Occasional investing is CGT. Regular profit-seeking activity with business organisation may be trading — Income Tax and Class 2/4 NI.
Limited companies
Company holds crypto on balance sheet. Disposals create Corporation Tax charges. Director withdrawals have further tax rules.
VAT
HMRC generally treats exchange tokens as outside VAT scope for most transactions — but fees for services may differ. Take professional advice for mixed activities.
Frequently asked questions
Does a crypto side hustle need registration?+
If trading income exceeds £1,000 you may need to register — see HMRC trading allowance guidance.