Is crypto taxed like stocks?
Mostly yes. Capital gains short/long-term. NFTs treated as collectibles (28% max LTCG).
Is buying crypto with USD taxable?
No — only sale, swap, or spend is taxable.
Are crypto-to-crypto swaps taxable?
Yes. IRS Notice 2014-21. Each swap = sale of original + purchase of new at FMV.
How are staking rewards taxed?
Ordinary income at FMV on receipt. Then capital gain on subsequent appreciation.
Can I write off crypto losses?
Yes — offset capital gains + $3k ordinary annually. Unlimited carryforward. Wash-sale rule does not apply (yet).
What is a halving?
Bitcoin mining reward cuts in half every 210k blocks (~4 years). Reduces new supply. Historically bullish.
DeFi yield taxable?
Yes — lending/LP rewards ordinary income at FMV. Impermanent loss typically capital loss on disposal.
NFT tax rate?
28% max federal LTCG (collectibles). Plus state, plus 3.8% NIIT for high earners.
Do I report crypto on Form 8949?
Yes — same as stocks. Schedule D summary. Form 1040 digital asset question must be answered.
Can the IRS track my crypto?
Yes — exchange 1099s, blockchain analysis firms (Chainalysis), John Doe summons. Under-reporting risky.
Mining as business vs hobby?
Business: deduct electricity, gear depreciation; pay SE tax. Hobby: limited deductions, no SE tax. Facts-and-circumstances test.
Is DCA better than lump sum for BTC?
High-volatility assets favor DCA historically. Lump sum wins in steady bull markets. BTC has been volatile enough that DCA backtests well.
How to handle lost/stolen crypto?
Personal theft loss no longer deductible (TCJA). Investment losses possibly deductible. Document thoroughly.
Should I convert crypto to Roth IRA?
Self-directed Roth IRA can hold crypto. Converting taxable crypto to Roth triggers capital gain on transfer. Complex.
Are airdrops taxable?
Yes — ordinary income at FMV on receipt per IRS Rev. Rul. 2019-24.