Learning Center

Tax Strategies: Navigating New 1099-DA Crypto Regulations

Form 1099-DA, known as "Digital Asset Proceeds from Broker Transactions," is a recent IRS development targeting brokers involved in reporting digital asset activities. This pivotal form aims to advance transparency and compliance within the digital asset arena by mandating detailed accounts of transactions involving cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and other digital holdings. Image 1

The comprehensive reporting requirements for Form 1099-DA are slated to commence with the 2025 tax year. Accordingly, brokers will dispatch these forms to both taxpayers and the IRS starting early 2026. This shift marks a departure from previous practices where accuracy relied largely on self-reported data, often leading to reporting errors and varied compliance levels.

Significance and Implications of Form 1099-DA: The initiative behind Form 1099-DA is to heighten tax compliance and enhance reporting precision in digital asset transactions. By compelling brokers to file specific transaction details, the IRS aims to streamline tax filing processes for investors while underscoring the importance of meticulous record-keeping for precise returns. Image 2

Who Needs to Furnish Form 1099-DA? The onus of issuing Form 1099-DA primarily falls on "brokers," a category broadly defined by the IRS to include digital asset platforms, payment processors, and wallet services. However, decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and non-custodial wallets generally do not meet the criteria for this requirement.

Recipients of Form 1099-DA: U.S. taxpayers engaging in the sale, trade, or disposal of digital assets through qualifying brokers will likely receive Form 1099-DA in early 2026 for transactions conducted in 2025. This encompasses both individuals and businesses dealing in a range of digital asset activities, including mining or staking. Real estate transactions involving digital assets are also subject to this reporting.

Details to Report on Form 1099-DA: Brokers must disclose comprehensive details for each digital transaction, such as:

  • Identification of payer and recipient.

  • Transaction insights like asset types, quantities, dates, and gross proceeds.

  • Cost basis for "covered securities" post-January 1, 2026; reporting of basis remains optional for 2025.

  • Holding period and transaction classification.

  • Fair Market Value and transaction charges.

  • Wash sales concerning tokenized securities.

Let's Connect
We look forward to speaking with you.
Contact Us

The scope of information on Form 1099-DA will vary with tax year.

  • 2025 Tax Year (reports issued early 2026): Brokers must report the gross proceeds from digital asset transactions, opting to disclose cost basis for this year.

  • 2026 Tax Year and Beyond: Subsequent reports necessitate more extensive details including gross proceeds, cost basis for "covered securities," and transaction specifics.

Navigating the Cost Basis Complexity for 2025: Notably, the voluntary nature of cost basis submission by brokers during 2025 presents challenges. If a broker doesn’t report cost basis, the IRS may consider it as zero, raising risks of underreported income issues. Taxpayers are urged to maintain a meticulous record of all pertinent transaction details to properly file Forms 8949 and Schedule D. Image 3

Specific Rules for Stablecoins and NFTs: Reporting requirements differ for select digital assets.

  • Stablecoin Transactions: Aggregated reporting is permissible for transactions exceeding $10,000 annually from 2025 onwards.

  • NFT Transactions: Sales exceeding $600 in a year trigger obligatory reporting, potentially via aggregation, starting in 2025.

Utilizing Form 1099-DA for Tax Filings: Data from Form 1099-DA integrates into tax filings similarly to stock transactions on Form 1099-B, enabling detailed capital gains or loss analyses. Taxpayers must reconcile this with personal records when filing Form 1040.

Strategic Practices for Digital Asset Investors: In light of these developments, it’s crucial for digital asset investors to curate thorough records, potentially using tax software for enhanced tracking. Awareness of broker reporting limits and consultation with tax professionals is vital for adept navigation of this evolving landscape.

Responding to IRS Digital Asset Queries: The IRS continues to pose annual questions on Form 1040 regarding involvement with digital assets. With Form 1099-DA implementation, the IRS can more effectively verify taxpayer disclosures aligning with broker reports. Accurate representation under penalty of perjury and compliance is essential when completing tax returns.

For inquiries or assistance in aligning your crypto transactions with this emerging framework, contact us for guidance tailored to ensure your filing integrity and accuracy.

Let's Connect
We look forward to speaking with you.
Contact Us
Share this article...