Tax Implications of Utilizing Cryptocurrency in Business Transactions

Becky Wilson July 18, 2023 | 19:09

It is decentralized, which means it operates independently of central banks and governments. Due to its characteristics, cryptocurrencies are becoming more and more used in commercial transactions.

Cryptocurrency in Business Transactions

However, it is important for business owners, particularly freelancers, to understand the tax implications of utilizing cryptocurrency.

When it comes to taxes, freelancers face unique challenges compared to employees. You are often categorized as a self-employed person if you work as a freelancer. This means that you are responsible for paying your own taxes, which can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are also using cryptocurrency in your business transactions. So, how can you navigate the tax implications of using cryptocurrency in your business transactions as a freelancer and maximize your tax savings?

First off, it's crucial to realize that using cryptocurrencies for commercial transactions does not protect you from paying taxes. In fact, according to the IRS, cryptocurrency is considered property and subject to tax laws. This means that every time you use cryptocurrency in a business transaction, you are required to report it on your tax return.

But how much taxes do you have to pay on 1099 income as a freelancer? The amount of taxes you have to pay on your 1099 income as a freelancer depends on several factors, including your income level, deductions, and tax bracket. The self-employed frequently pay more taxes than employees do since they are required to pay both the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Self-employed people typically pay a total tax rate of 15.3% on their net income.

To determine how much you owe in taxes from your 1099 income, you can use a self-employed tax calculator. Keep in mind that these estimates are not set in stone and can change based on various factors such as your income level, deductions, and tax bracket.

Another important factor to consider when using cryptocurrency in business transactions is how to calculate estimated tax payments for 2023. To avoid underpayment penalties, the IRS requires self-employed people to submit anticipated tax payments on a quarterly basis. You must compute your projected tax payments if you utilize cryptocurrencies in your company activities.

Use the IRS's Form 1040-ES to determine your anticipated tax payments for 2023. When figuring up your expected taxes, be careful to take any revenue from bitcoin transactions into account.

As such, tax laws and regulations surrounding the use of cryptocurrency in business transactions may change. It's important to stay up to date with the latest changes and regulations to ensure that you are properly reporting your cryptocurrency transactions on your tax returns and avoiding any legal issues or penalties.

In conclusion, while the use of cryptocurrency in business transactions can be lucrative and exciting, freelancers need to be aware of the tax implications. Understanding how much taxes you pay on 1099 income, how to calculate estimated tax payments for 2023, and utilizing a self-employed tax calculator can help minimize your tax liability and maximize your tax savings. As with any tax-related issue, it's always best to consult with a qualified tax professional who can guide you through the process and provide you with tailored advice for your specific situation.