Investor vs Trader Status Checker
Answer three questions about your activity. The tool applies the HMRC badges of trade and shows whether your position looks like investment (CGT) or trading (income tax). Almost all individuals are investors.
Investor vs Trader Status Checker
Answer three questions about your activity. The tool applies the HMRC badges of trade and shows whether your position looks like investment (CGT) or trading (income tax). Almost all individuals are investors.
HMRC considers whether you operate with the organisation and commerciality of a trade.
No badges of trade present. HMRC would almost certainly treat this as investment activity. CGT at 18%/24% applies.
Check your position with a crypto tax specialist
A calculator gives you the shape of the answer. We confirm your exact figures, the reliefs you can claim, and what your business needs to file. No obligation, and we reply within one working day.
Investor vs trader: why it matters
HMRC's Cryptoassets Manual states that it is unlikely that an individual buying and selling cryptoassets would be regarded as carrying on a trade. Trading status is reserved for exceptional cases where the activity amounts to a financial trade on the facts.
The badges of trade (frequency, organisation, profit motive, method of financing) are used to determine status. High volume alone does not create a trade: many high-frequency investors are still CGT taxpayers.
Trader status is nearly always worse than investor status. Income tax rates run up to 45%, compared with CGT at 18%/24%. Losses would be income losses rather than capital losses, which has its own consequences.
Frequently asked questions
Does HMRC always treat crypto as investment?
HMRC's default position is that crypto activity by individuals is investment subject to CGT. They will only argue trading where the activity genuinely amounts to a financial trade on the facts, which is a high bar.
Can I choose to be treated as a trader?
No. Tax status is determined by the facts. You cannot elect to be a trader to access income tax loss relief, and HMRC will look at the substance of the activity.
Want to be sure of your position?
Tell us about your crypto situation and we will confirm your exact figures and the compliance steps that apply to you. No obligation.