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UK Crypto & Forex Tax 2026: CGT 18/24%, Spread Betting and the GBP 3,000 Allowance

UK traders pay CGT at 18% (basic rate) or 24% (higher rate) from 6 April 2026, after a GBP 3,000 annual allowance. Spread betting stays entirely tax-free, CFDs are fully taxable, and crypto profits run through HMRC pooling rules reported on the SA108 pages.

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August 22, 2026 | 10 min read | UK crypto tax, CGT 2026, Spread betting tax

CGT Rates and the GBP 3,000 Allowance

From 6 April 2026, capital gains tax is 18% for basic-rate taxpayers and 24% for higher-rate taxpayers. Every individual gets a GBP 3,000 annual exempt allowance before any CGT is due.

Crypto disposals use HMRC pooling rules (the Section 104 pool) to establish cost.
Capital losses offset capital gains only — never income.
Forex and CFD gains fall under CGT alongside stocks and crypto.

Spread Betting vs CFDs: One Is Tax-Free

Spread betting is tax-free in the UK: wins are not capital gains and losses cannot be claimed. CFDs, by contrast, are fully taxable under CGT rules.

Dividends are taxed separately at 8.75% (basic), 33.75% (higher) and 39.35% (additional), with a GBP 500 tax-free dividend allowance.

What Changed in 2026

The 18% / 24% CGT rates apply from 6 April 2026.
The annual exempt allowance stands at GBP 3,000 for the 2026 tax year.
Filing is via online self assessment by 31 January: SA100 plus the SA108 capital gains pages.

Filing Your UK Crypto Gains

Report crypto, forex and CFD gains on your online self assessment by 31 January: the SA100 main return plus the SA108 capital gains pages. Keep pooling records, dates and sterling values of every disposal for at least a year after filing.

FAQ

What is the UK capital gains tax rate on crypto in 2026?

18% for basic-rate taxpayers and 24% for higher-rate taxpayers, applied from 6 April 2026 after the GBP 3,000 annual allowance.

Is spread betting taxable in the UK?

No. Spread betting is tax-free, while CFD gains are fully taxable under CGT.

How much can I earn tax-free?

The annual exempt allowance is GBP 3,000, plus a GBP 500 dividend allowance.

How do I calculate crypto cost basis?

HMRC pooling rules (the Section 104 pool) average the cost of each coin across purchases and disposals.

When is the UK filing deadline?

31 January, online self assessment: SA100 plus the SA108 capital gains pages.

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Legal disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice. Tax rates were compiled from public sources in August 2026 and may be outdated, incomplete or incorrect for your situation. We are not certified tax professionals or licensed accountants. Always consult a qualified local tax professional before filing. Use of this information is at your own risk; we accept no liability for any loss, penalty or audit outcome arising from reliance on it. By using this site you agree to our Terms of Service.