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Cryptocurrency - What are your tax obligations?

In simplest terms, cryptocurrency is money that only exists digitally or virtually. Cryptocurrency uses cryptography and blockchain technology to regulate its generation and verify fund transfers.

There are no special tax rules for cryptocurrencies, ordinary tax rules apply.

Inland Revenue have recently released Cryptocurrency and Tax guidance about how the tax laws apply to the new technology. The guidance includes answers to some frequently asked questions to assist customers in understanding their tax obligations.

For example, retailers have asked how to account for cryptocurrency receipts. If cryptocurrency is accepted as a method of payment for goods or services it is business income, which is taxable. This is seen as a barter transaction and you’ll need to calculate the value of the cryptocurrency in New Zealand Dollars at the time it is received.

If you believe that you haven’t got your tax right, you can make a voluntary disclosure to let us know.

For more information on cryptocurrency check out

https://www.ird.govt.nz/campaigns/2018/cryptocurrency-tax.html