Cryptoasset Taxation

This publication provides clear and authoritative guidance on the tax issues surrounding cryptoassets in the United Kingdom. Cryptoassets are a type of digital asset. The most common examples are Bitcoin and Ethereum. HMRC do not consider cryptoassets to be money or that buying or selling them is gambling. This means that, in HMRC’s view, profits or gains from buying and selling cryptoassets are taxable.

The authors are Ben Lee, Dion Seymour and Zoe Wyatt. Dion is the Crypto and Digital Assets Technical Director at Andersen. He was formerly the crypto-asset policy and product owner at HMRC. As well as advisory work in this area, he also speaks regularly on this subject. His co-author is Zoe Wyatt, Partner and Head of Crypto and Digital Assets, also at Andersen.

This is an evolving area in the UK and globally. It can be challenging for advisors dealing with business and individual clients to keep up with the pace of technical developments and the tax implications. The book helps readers understand HMRC’s view by providing clear and practical guidance on the technology (including clear definitions of the technical terms), and the tax impact, including relevant case law. The commentary is enhanced by the inclusion of numerous examples as well as illustrative flowcharts and diagrams.

The book also outlines the compliance requirements including self assessment returns and penalties. The OECD regime will also be covered.

This book is be an authoritative and valuable tool for any advisors looking into this area for the first time.

Ben Lee is a Partner within Andersen’s crypto team and is a highly experienced and accomplished Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Advisor.

Dion Seymour is Crypto and Digital Assets Technical Director at Andersen UK. He was formerly the crypto-asset policy and product owner at HMRC. As well as advisory work in this area, he also speaks regularly on this subject.

Zoe Wyatt is a Partner and Head of Web3 & Disruptive Technology at Andersen UK.