Start with the IRS digital-assets overview
The IRS treats digital assets as property for federal tax purposes. Its overview links reporting routes, recordkeeping requirements and transaction guidance. It is a starting point rather than a ruling for every protocol.
Use the guidance for the right transaction year
The IRS distinguishes older virtual-currency FAQs from the newer digital-asset FAQs reflecting the broker-reporting regulations and transactions on or after January 1, 2025. Check the applicability dates before using an old cost-allocation example.
Read the rule for the event you had
Staking, fork-related airdrops, NFT collectibles and broker statements have separate guidance. Keep the title, revision or publication date and the relevant facts with your calculation.
- Digital assets overview and transaction FAQs.
- Revenue rulings for specific receipts.
- Form 8949 and Schedule D instructions.
- Form 1099-DA instructions and your broker statement.
Sources & limits
Source review: Oct 1, 2026. Availability and provider terms can change.
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