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Crypto Tax Update: Navigating the New 1099-DA Reporting

Form 1099-DA, titled "Digital Asset Proceeds from Broker Transactions," marks a pivotal shift in IRS tax reporting for brokers handling digital assets. This form is a crucial development aimed at augmenting clarity and compliance within the digital asset marketplace, encompassing dealings in cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and other digital assets.Image 2

The introduction of Form 1099-DA begins with the 2025 tax year, requiring brokers to issue forms to both taxpayers and the IRS by early 2026. Prior to this, much of the reported data was self-disclosed by taxpayers, leading to sporadic reporting and potential underreporting issues.

The Purpose and Impact of Form 1099-DA: By enforcing mandatory transaction reporting, Form 1099-DA standardizes digital asset disclosures, facilitating more precise tax filing for investors. Nevertheless, it demands meticulous record maintenance to align with reporting standards.

Who Must Issue Form 1099-DA? The obligation to issue Form 1099-DA extends to brokers orchestrating the sale or exchange of digital assets. The IRS’s broad broker definition includes digital asset trading platforms, payment processors, and hosted wallet providers, excluding DeFi platforms and non-custodial wallets.

Who Receives Form 1099-DA? U.S. taxpayers engaging in the sale, trade, or disposal of digital assets via a certified broker will receive a Form 1099-DA starting in 2026 for 2025 transactions. This mandate encompasses individuals and businesses involved in digital asset mining, staking, buying, or selling, as well as real estate entities using digital assets for transactions.Image 3

Details Included on Form 1099-DA: Brokers must report exhaustive details for each digital asset transaction, which comprise:

  • Payer and Recipient Identification.
  • Transaction specifics: asset name, quantity, date, time, and gross proceeds.
  • Cost basis, mandatory post-January 1, 2026, for "covered securities." It's voluntary for the 2025 tax year.
  • Holding period and transaction type.
  • Fair Market Value (FMV) and transaction fees.
  • Wash sales regarding tokenized securities.

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The obligatory information evolves yearly. In 2025, brokers must report gross proceeds only, with cost basis reporting optional. However, starting 2026, they must include gross proceeds, cost basis for covered securities, acquisition and disposition dates, and more.Image 1

Understanding the Cost Basis Challenge for 2025: Notably, cost basis reporting by brokers remains voluntary for 2025 transactions. If omitted, the IRS may assume zero cost, potentially triggering tax notices for underreported income. Precise personal records tracking acquisition and sales details are indispensable for taxpayers, especially when filling Forms 8949 and Schedule D.

Special Reporting Rules for Stablecoins and NFTs: Unique reporting guidelines exist for stablecoins and NFTs:

  • Stablecoins: From 2025, brokers can report aggregate qualifying stablecoin transactions exceeding $10,000 annually.
  • NFTs: For specified NFTs, brokers need to report sales over $600 aggregated starting 2025.

How Form 1099-DA Shapes Tax Filing: Similar to stock transaction reports on Form 1099-B, Form 1099-DA assists in preparing tax returns. This involves aligning it with the taxpayer’s records to calculate capital gains or losses reported on Form 1040.

Best Practices for Crypto Investors: Given these modifications, crypto investors should diligently document all transactions, consider employing crypto tax software, and heed potential broker report limitations, notably in cost basis for 2025. Unreported transactions on a 1099-DA still require reporting. Remaining updated and consulting a tax professional can aid in navigating this dynamic terrain.

IRS Digital Asset Inquiry: Taxpayers must diligently address the IRS’s "yes" or "no" digital asset question on Form 1040, as brokers' 1099-DA submissions will corroborate responses. Correctly answering is crucial since the return is filed under penalty of perjury.

Reach out to our office for guidance and assistance in accurately reporting your crypto transactions on your tax return.

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