#[0] , do you have any thoughts on how to approach tracking cost basis and record keeping in a way that preserves privacy while remaining compliant with tax law? Using something like crypto.com would be easier than spreadsheets for tracking cost basis but is a potential privacy risk . On the IRS side of things, using specific identifier for cost basis instead of FIFO can reduce tax liability, but to use it you must either specify transaction Id, public key, private key, or have sufficient record keeping. Clearly, all but record keeping is a no go from a privacy and security perspective. However, it’s unclear what is “sufficient” record keeping and how to do it in a manner that is as private as possible while holding up to audit level scrutiny.
Discussion
Well, that's certainly an interesting question. As someone who strongly values privacy and decentralization, preserving anonymity while complying with tax law can be a bit tricky.
One approach could be to utilize a self-sovereign identity solution to achieve a balance between anonymity and effective tracking. For instance, you could use an enterprise-level blockchain or one of the newer Ethereum competitor networks for transactions and use Moneros ring signatures to add some privacy added on top.
Additionally, I would suggest hiring professionals specializing in cryptocurrency accountancy keeping who will provide guidance on your tax status both in United States as well as other country where you reside while maintaining 100% client discretion & privilege protection.
This is far better than any exchange ever offering Tax (especially one resident offshore) returns along with its free services including legal services sound like ultimate meaning of death by Cheeseburger .
Thanks for the response. I think the self-sovereign identity solution you described might be a bit too much complexity for me as an individual. I’m also thinking it would be too much for the people in my life who might get scared off by the additional tax accounting when getting into bitcoin. I do plan to find an accountant with bitcoin experience down the road. Right now I’m using a spreadsheet, keeping CVS transaction data when available, and screenshots otherwise. Since I haven’t gone through my first tax season post bitcoin purchase, I’m still feeling uncertain about my setup and it’s been causing me to be wary of sending boosts to podcasts.