The IRS treats cryptocurrency as property for tax purposes. Capital gains from sales, trades, or disposals are taxed at short-term rates (10%-37%) if held one year or less, or long-term rates (0%-20%) if held longer. Income from mining, staking, or airdrops is ordinary income taxed at 10%-37%.
β’ Short-term gains (held β€1 year): taxed at ordinary income rates (10%-37%).
β’ Long-term gains (held >1 year): taxed at 0%, 15%, or 20% based on income.
β’ Taxable events include trading crypto for crypto or fiat; no like-kind exchanges allowed.
β’ Losses offset gains; up to $3,000 net loss deductible against ordinary income annually.
β’ Report on Form 8949 and Schedule D; track cost basis and fair market value.
β’ Staking rewards: taxable as ordinary income per Revenue Ruling 2023-14 at FMV.
β’ Airdrops, hard forks: income at FMV upon receipt or control.
β’ Other income (payments, interest): ordinary income rates.
β’ Basis for future sales equals FMV at receipt; report on Schedule 1 (Form 1040).
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β’ Answer 'Yes/No' to digital assets question on Form 1040.
β’ Capital gains/losses: Form 8949, Schedule D.
β’ Ordinary income: Schedule 1 (Form 1040); business: Schedule C.
β’ Brokers issue Form 1099-DA: gross proceeds from 2025 txns (filed 2026), basis from 2026.
β’ Deadline: April 15 (extensions to Oct 15); keep records of FMV, basis, dates.
β’ Proposed regs for DeFi brokers as reporting entities in 2026.
β’ No general de minimis exemption; exceptions for certain stablecoin/NFT txns under thresholds.
β’ Net Investment Income Tax (3.8%) may apply to gains/income over thresholds.
β’ Revenue Procedure 2024-28 allows basis allocation for wallets as of Jan 1, 2025.
β’ IRS updated guidance March 17, 2026.
What are the tax changes that affect crypto taxes in 2026?
IRS Form 1099-DA required for cost basis reporting starting 2026 tax year. Brokers must report digital asset transactions more comprehensively.
March 20, 2026
IRS Extends Crypto Tax Relief Until End of 2026
IRS extended compliance relief for crypto investors, allowing alternative reporting methods until end of 2026. Helps avoid penalties during transition.
March 19, 2026
New U.S. Crypto Tax Reporting Rules 'Do A Disservice To People'
Coinbase criticizes new crypto tax reporting rules for creating unnecessary paperwork for retail traders. Rules effective in 2026 filing season.
March 15, 2026
IRS Releases Proposed Regulations on Crypto Information Reporting
IRS issued proposed rules treating DeFi brokers as reporting entities effective 2026. Follows 2024 regulations on trading front-ends.
March 11, 2026
Understanding Your 2026 Crypto Taxes
Fidelity explains crypto tax basics, changes for 2025/2026 season, tax-loss harvesting. Covers reporting and strategies.
February 20, 2026
2 Cryptocurrency Tax Rule Changes Going Into Effect in 2026
IRS tighter rules including Form 1040 question and audits continue; new broker reporting requirements start.
February 3, 2026
2026 Crypto Tax Forecast: Hot With A High Chance Of Legislation
Congressmen propose crypto tax changes; expect legislation in 2026 on taxation issues.
January 29, 2026
Reporting Digital Assets: What US Investors Need to Know in 2026
IRS views crypto as property; outlines reporting for 2026 with new rules.
January 16, 2026
Ringing In Crypto's 'Watershed' Tax Year: A Tricky 2026 Filing Season
2026 tax filing for 2025 txns messy due to new reporting; de minimis proposals discussed but not passed.
December 30, 2025
United States Crypto Tax FAQ
Is cryptocurrency taxed in United States?
What is the capital gains tax rate on crypto in United States?
How do I report crypto taxes in United States?
Are crypto-to-crypto trades taxable in United States?
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Disclaimer: This information is AI-generated and for educational purposes only. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Always consult with a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.