The short version: FUT tax is a 5% fee that EA (the game company) charges when you sell players in FIFA Ultimate Team. It’s not a government tax. It’s an in game transaction fee.
How does it work?
When you sell a player on the FUT transfer market, EA takes 5% of the sale price. So if you sell someone for 1,000 coins, you only receive 950. It’s designed to control the in game economy and prevent rampant trading.
Is this real tax?
No. It’s just what EA calls their cut. HMRC isn’t involved in your FIFA transactions (unless you’re somehow making real money from it, which would be a different conversation entirely).
Why is this in a tax glossary?
Fair question. The word “tax” gets used for all sorts of fees and deductions, even when it’s nothing to do with the government. FUT tax is one of those cases. Good to know the difference.
What if I actually make money from gaming?
If you’re earning real income from esports, streaming, or selling in game items for actual money, that could be taxable. It would count as self employment income or trading income depending on the circumstances.
Making real money from gaming and wondering about the tax implications? Have a chat with us about your situation.
