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Crypto Tax in United States

Tax authority: IRS Β· Last updated: 2026

Overview

ClassificationProperty
Capital Gains Tax0% / 15% / 20% (long-term), ordinary income rates (short-term)
Holding Period1 year for long-term rates
Cost Basis MethodFIFO, LIFO, HIFO, Specific Identification
Reporting FormsForm 8949, Schedule D, Schedule 1

Key Rules

  • β€’Crypto is taxed as property, not currency
  • β€’Every trade, swap, and spend is a taxable event
  • β€’Staking and mining rewards are taxed as ordinary income
  • β€’Tax-loss harvesting is allowed (no wash sale rule for crypto yet)
  • β€’Must report on tax return even if no gains

Best Crypto Tax Software for United States

K

Koinly

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.7

The most popular crypto tax calculator

C

CoinLedger

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.5

Formerly CryptoTrader.Tax β€” simple US crypto taxes

C

CoinTracker

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.4

Official Coinbase tax partner

Z

ZenLedger

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.2

US-focused crypto tax with CPA support

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Crypto tax rules change frequently. Consult a qualified tax professional in United States for advice specific to your situation.