Does Notice 2014-21 Need an Update? An Analysis of Potential Tax Classifications for Cryptocurrency

The IRS issued Notice 2014-21 in which they classify cryptocurrency as property. However, the variety and usage of cryptocurrency has increased since Notice 2014-21 so that cryptocurrency has become a significant and widely accepted component of the global financial system. Cryptocurrency includes a diverse group of digital assets with different origins and uses. One type of cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, has been adopted as legal tender in two countries. Yet the IRS guidance for reporting cryptocurrency has not changed. In this paper, we examine the current regulatory framework regarding cryptocurrency. Next, we discuss alternative tax treatments for cryptocurrency and the tax effects of those potential treatments. Finally, we make policy recommendations for the tax treatment of cryptocurrency.