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Unfiled taxes with crypto
Short answer: For each unfiled year, gather exchange statements or transaction exports, the wallet addresses you used, records of crypto you were paid, and bank transfers to and from exchanges. The IRS explains how it treats digital assets on IRS.gov, and says to file all past due returns even if you can't pay in full. A tax pro who handles crypto can tell you how the rules apply to your years.
Written by the BackYears editorial team. Published . Last reviewed .
Not yet reviewed by a tax professional.
Crypto adds a layer to catching up. Records are spread across exchanges and wallets, some exchanges no longer exist, and the rules can feel unclear. You're far from the only person in this spot.
This page is general information, not tax advice.
What the IRS says about digital assets
The IRS has a page on digital assets(IRS.gov), opens in a new tab that explains how it treats crypto and similar assets for tax purposes, and the question about digital assets on the main tax return. It's worth reading for the general picture. A tax pro can tell you how it applies to your years.
What to gather
- Exchange account statements or transaction exports for each year
- Wallet addresses you used
- Records of crypto you received as payment for work
- Bank transfers to and from exchanges
- Emails or screenshots from exchanges that have closed
Exports can often still be downloaded from exchanges that are open. For closed exchanges, start with what you saved and what your bank shows.
Why it's still worth filing
The IRS's page on filing past due tax returns(IRS.gov), opens in a new tab says to file all returns that are due, even if you can't pay in full, and that filing and paying sooner limits interest and late payment penalties.
How BackYears can help
Mention crypto when you answer our questions. If you choose to be introduced, we'll try to match you with a vetted CPA, Enrolled Agent or tax attorney who handles crypto, and they'll confirm whether they can help before any work starts. We're an independent referral service, not a tax preparer.
Sources
Questions people ask
My exchange shut down. What can I do?
Gather whatever you still have: emails, bank transfers, wallet addresses and screenshots. A tax pro with crypto experience can tell you what's enough to work from.
Do all your partners handle crypto?
Not every partner does. Tell us about crypto in the income question, and the pro you're introduced to can confirm whether it's something they take on.
Want help catching up?
Answer a few questions (no SSN). If you say yes, we'll introduce you to a vetted tax pro who offers a flat price. Free, no obligation.
Start the questionsRelated
- Records you'll need as a freelancer
A plain checklist of the records a tax pro usually asks for when you're catching up on unfiled years, and what to do if some are missing.
- I haven't filed taxes in 3 years: what now?
A calm, plain-English look at what to do when you haven't filed for a few years, with links to the IRS's own pages.
Everything on this site is general information, not tax, legal or financial advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a licensed tax professional.