While merely holding bitcoin, dash, or other cryptocurrency does not give rise to tax, the sale will result in a capital gain or full income inclusion. The use of bitcoin in a transaction will also be considered a disposition for Canadian income tax purposes and will result in income that has to be reported. If you are planning to hedge against a potential bitcoin bubble collapse by selling some BTC, consider delaying that sale until the new year so that the profits will be taxed in 2018, if you think any possible collapse won’t take place before year end. If you sell digital currency in 2017 your profits will have to be declared when you file your 2017 tax return by April 30, 2018.
ADVICE CENTER
22 January 2018
Taxation of Sales of Bitcoin Before Year End
While merely holding bitcoin, dash, or other cryptocurrency does not give rise to tax, the sale will result in a capital gain or full income inclusion.
Take Note
This document is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship. You should not act or rely on any information in this document
without first seeking legal advice. This material is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you
have any specific questions on any legal matter, you should consult a professional legal services provider.