FiscalFox reads original Interactive Brokers Activity Flex Query CSV files with individual trades. It validates any broker-supplied GBP rates and uses dated published reference rates when the export does not provide a complete, reliable conversion route.
How to export an IBKR Flex Query that imports
Use an Activity Flex Query, not a portfolio or positions summary. IBKR lets you choose the fields, so a file can look valid but still be missing one of the core trade fields.
- Sign in to Interactive Brokers Client Portal.
- Open Performance & Reports → Flex Queries.
- Create or edit an Activity Flex Query, then add the Trades section.
- Include Symbol, Description, AssetClass, Buy/Sell, Quantity, TradePrice, DateTime, CurrencyPrimary, Proceeds, IBCommission and Multiplier.
- Include FXRateToBase or dated currency-rate rows when IBKR offers them. Keep the values unchanged; FiscalFox will check their coverage and consistency.
- Set the date range from the earliest relevant taxable acquisition through the end of the tax year. Earlier purchases can still sit in a Section 104 pool.
- Choose CSV, run the query and upload the original file without editing it.
Two supported IBKR export recipes
Preferred: an original Activity Flex Query CSV with Trades. Alternative: a detailed Activity Statement CSV with the Trades section. Existing FX fields improve provenance, but missing rates no longer require manual CSV editing.
FiscalFox verifies the GBP conversion method
FiscalFox first checks any FXRateToBase or dated rate rows supplied by IBKR. It retains consistent broker rates and records the conversion source on each imported transaction.
When rates are missing, repeated across too many dates, equal to 1 for a non-GBP currency, or materially inconsistent, FiscalFox uses dated published reference rates instead. It stops safely if complete replacement coverage is unavailable.
Once the CSV is ready, open the FiscalFox calculator with Interactive Brokers already selected and upload the file. FiscalFox parses the export in your browser where possible. Signed-in uploads may also be stored in private, user-scoped storage for support and troubleshooting.
File format details
FiscalFox recognises Interactive Brokers Flex Query trade rows with columns such as:
- ClientAccountID -- optional IBKR account identifier
- Symbol and Description -- the traded instrument
- AssetClass -- recommended; for example STK for shares or OPT for options. If omitted, FiscalFox only infers the class when the remaining fields are unambiguous.
- CurrencyPrimary -- the trade currency, such as USD or GBP
- Buy/Sell, Quantity and TradePrice (or Price) -- the core trade economics; TradeMoney is optional when a safe total can be derived
- Proceeds, IBCommission and Multiplier -- used where available to calculate totals and fees
The parser reads Flex Query FX fields and Activity Statement Forex rows where present. It checks those rates against their date coverage and a published reference series. Missing or unsafe rates are replaced only when complete dated coverage is available. If the upload has no review queue after calculation, the supported share, ETF and resolved listed-option rows produce detailed SA108 working figures for filing review.
How FiscalFox processes IBKR data
- Stocks and ETFs are imported as share transactions and matched using the same-day rule, 30-day rule and Section 104 pooling.
- Fees and commissions are converted to GBP and included as allowable costs where relevant.
- Options are kept separate from shares. FiscalFox automates buy-to-sell close-outs, written option buy-backs, expiries, and matched exercise or assignment into the underlying stock trade.
- Open written options are shown as review items because a later exercise or assignment can change how the premium is reported.
- Cash and FX-only rows are ignored for standard share CGT calculations.
For example, if IBKR reports a GOOG share trade at USD 344.90, FiscalFox records the original USD amount and the dated GBP rate used. A separate GOOG option premium, such as a USD 473 option contract row, is treated as an option instrument rather than as the GOOG share price.
Common Interactive Brokers upload issues
Missing GBP FX rates
Upload the original file even when it contains USD trades without a GBP FX table. FiscalFox uses the published daily rate for each trade date, or the most recent available rate within the documented carry window, and shows the provider in the import verification. Do not paste a single rate across a tax year or set a non-GBP rate to 1.
Options and derivatives
Interactive Brokers is popular with active traders, so exports may include options, futures, forex and other instruments. FiscalFox handles listed stock option close-outs, expiries and matched exercise or assignment rows. Treat an SA108 that contains review items as a draft until those positions have been checked.
Incomplete date ranges
A tax-year-only export may not include earlier purchases that still sit in your Section 104 pool. For accurate calculations, include your full history for any securities sold during the tax year.
Supported transaction types
| IBKR Row Type | How FiscalFox Uses It |
|---|---|
| STK buy | Adds shares to the relevant Section 104 pool in GBP |
| STK sell | Creates a disposal matched under HMRC share matching rules |
| OPT buy / sell | Processes listed option close-outs and expiries; folds matched exercise or assignment premiums into the underlying stock trade |
| FX fields or dated reference rate | Converts proceeds, costs and commissions to GBP with recorded provenance |
If your Interactive Brokers export still looks wrong after using the Flex Query format, contact support with the file type and the transaction you are checking. For complex options, derivatives or tax residency questions, review the output with a qualified tax adviser before filing.
Frequently asked questions
Does FiscalFox support Interactive Brokers?
Yes. FiscalFox supports Interactive Brokers Flex Query and detailed Activity Statement CSV exports containing individual trades. It checks broker FX data and can add dated published GBP reference rates when needed.
Which Interactive Brokers file should I upload to FiscalFox?
Upload an original Interactive Brokers Flex Query or detailed Activity Statement CSV containing individual trades. ClientAccountID and TradeMoney are optional; AssetClass should be included whenever available. Do not add FX rates manually.
How does FiscalFox convert IBKR trades to GBP?
FiscalFox validates broker-provided FX rates when present. If an IBKR export has no usable GBP rate, or its supplied rates fail consistency checks, FiscalFox uses dated published reference rates and records the source for each transaction.
Official UK tax references
This guide is checked against published GOV.UK and HMRC material. FiscalFox is a calculation tool, not personal tax advice; review unusual transactions with a qualified adviser.