What Is Crypto Tax?
Crypto tax refers to the taxation of cryptocurrency transactions, such as buying, selling, or trading digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. In particular, the IRS classifies cryptocurrency as property, meaning you must report capital gains and losses for tax purposes.
Whenever you sell or exchange cryptocurrency, you owe taxes on the difference between the purchase price (cost basis) and the selling price. Additionally, if you receive cryptocurrency as payment, it’s considered ordinary income, and the fair market value at the time of receipt becomes taxable.
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Taxable Crypto Events |
Non-Taxable Crypto Events |
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Selling cryptocurrency for fiat (e.g., USD) |
Buying cryptocurrency with fiat |
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Trading one cryptocurrency for another |
Transferring cryptocurrency between wallets |
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Using cryptocurrency to buy goods or services |
Gifting cryptocurrency (until sold by recipient) |
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Receiving cryptocurrency as payment for services |
Crypto Tax Reporting Deadlines
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Crypto Tax Category |
Reporting Deadline |
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Capital Gains/Losses Reporting |
April 15 (Tax Filing Deadline) |
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Income from Cryptocurrency Payments |
April 15 (Tax Filing Deadline) |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I owe taxes if I buy cryptocurrency but don’t sell it?
No, buying cryptocurrency alone is not a taxable event. However, taxes are due when you sell or use it in a transaction.
2. How do I report cryptocurrency on my taxes?
You report cryptocurrency transactions on IRS Form 8949, and you should include gains or losses in your annual tax return.
3. Are gifts of cryptocurrency taxable?
Gifting cryptocurrency is not immediately taxable, but the recipient may owe taxes when they sell or exchange it.
4. How is cryptocurrency taxed by the IRS?
The IRS taxes cryptocurrency as property, and capital gains tax applies when you sell, trade, or use it.
5. Do I pay taxes if I receive cryptocurrency as a gift?
No, but taxes may apply when you sell or exchange the gifted cryptocurrency.
6. What happens if I don’t report my cryptocurrency transactions?
Failing to report can result in IRS penalties, including fines or additional taxes.
