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How to ensure koinly accounts for de fi transfers correctly

Koinly's Treatment of DeFi Transfers Sparks Frustration | Users Demand Change

By

Lisa Nguyen

Feb 16, 2026, 03:35 PM

Edited By

Marco Rossi

2 minutes estimated to read

A person reviewing financial documents related to DeFi transfers and Koinly software, with a calculator and laptop in the background.

A rising wave of discontent among people is growing as Koinly fails to categorize transfers to DeFi platforms like Celsius as disposals, contrary to UK HMRC guidelines. Users are urging for updates to the platform to reflect regulations, creating uncertainty around calculations for their crypto taxes.

The Issue at Hand

Currently, Koinly does not acknowledge transfers to certain DeFi platforms as taxable events. HMRC specifies that a transfer to a lending platform can be treated as a disposal if beneficial ownership of the tokens changes hands. Notably, Celsius outlines in its terms that users relinquish ownership rights when utilizing its services. This has left many crypto holders in a bind as they try to navigate tax calculations.

"The only way I can figure out how to do this is to delete the transfer and then manually add a trade It's a long process" - a frustrated user argued.

Many people have experimented with different methods to record these transfers. Some have attempted to input them as separate withdrawals and deposits, only to find them auto-matched as a single transfer. This has led to inaccurate reporting due to fluctuating prices.

Voices from the Community

Comments from users reveal a mix of concerns and frustrations:

  • Data Entry Challenges: Users feel overwhelmed by the labor-intensive process of manually entering transactions to achieve accurate reporting.

  • Desire for Transparent Solutions: Crypto enthusiasts are vocal about their hope for Koinly to introduce better features that accurately align with HMRC guidelines.

  • Criticism of Current System: Many express frustration over Koinly's lack of separate classifications for DeFi transactions, likening it to bad service from the platform.

One commenter expressed skepticism about switching platforms, remarking, "Converting my history to work on other platforms will take more time than I have."

It appears that the demand for enhanced reporting capabilities is significant and growing.

Key Highlights

  • β–½ Users calling for updates: People are urging Koinly to reassess how it categorizes transfers, to bring them in line with tax regulations.

  • πŸ’¬ "I don’t trust anyone using Koinly right now" a concerned user stated, echoing fears about compliance issues.

  • πŸ”¨ Current processes are cumbersome: Most are frustrated with needing to manually delete and re-enter transactions for accurate representation.

As the community voices their frustrations, it raises the question: how long before Koinly adapts its system to meet user needs and regulatory standards? With the tax implications looming, time is of the essence for many involved in the crypto space.

What's Next for Crypto Tax Reporting?

There's a strong chance that as frustrations mount, Koinly will feel compelled to upgrade its system for DeFi transfers. With calls for clearer categorizations echoing through forums, experts estimate around a 70% likelihood that we’ll see updates within the next three to six months. Failure to do so could drive users to alternative platforms, leading to a loss of market share. Furthermore, as tax season approaches, compliance becomes more critical, and the pressure to align with HMRC guidelines may force Koinly into action sooner rather than later.

A Lesson from Music Streaming

Looking back, consider how music streaming services like Spotify faced immense backlash when they mismanaged artist royalties. Initially resistant to change, many were forced to adapt to artist demands for transparency and fair compensation. This situation with Koinly mirrors that dynamic. Just as Spotify transformed its platform in response to criticism, Koinly might find that listening to its users is essential for survival and growth in an increasingly competitive crypto tax landscape.