How to choose a cryptocurrency CPA
A cryptocurrency CPA is a licensed accountant who knows digital-asset taxes. Check the state license, ask about DeFi and staking, and share records safely.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20262 min readFact-checked
On this page
- A CPA can represent you before the IRS in audits and appeals.
- Trading one crypto for another is a taxable disposition.
- Keep records of purchases, sales, swaps, and other dispositions.
You look for a cryptocurrency CPA when you have sold, swapped, staked, earned, or paid with digital assets. The right professional knows how the IRS treats those events and asks for your records.
What should you know before you start?
A cryptocurrency CPA is a state-licensed accountant trained in digital-asset tax reporting. The IRS treats digital assets as property under Notice 2014-21. Selling, trading, paying, and receiving crypto as payment are taxable; buying with dollars and holding is not.
How do you choose a crypto CPA?
Start with the license, then test crypto knowledge. A CPA license is issued by a state board.
- 1Verify the state licenseCheck the state board of accountancy.
- 2Ask about crypto clientsAsk how many crypto clients they have helped.
- 3Ask about exchanges and walletsAsk how they report exchange trades, wallet transfers, DeFi, staking, and NFT sales.
- 4Ask about IRS representationAsk if they can represent you before the IRS.
What records and safeguards do you need?
Before the first meeting, gather records from every exchange and wallet. Share them through a secure portal, and do not send passwords, private keys, or seed phrases.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, a CPA can prepare amended federal returns if you reported crypto incorrectly.
You can move to a CPA who understands crypto or ask for a specialist referral.
Usually no, if you bought with US dollars and did not sell, trade, or pay.
A licensed CPA in good standing can represent clients before the IRS.
