Introduction
In 2025, California crypto traders, DeFi investors, and NFT creators face two levels of tax scrutiny: federal and state. While the IRS has provided detailed cryptocurrency guidance, the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) has begun matching federal treatment with additional sourcing and PIT (Personal Income Tax) consequences.
If you’re a resident, part-year resident, or nonresident trading in California, this guide is for you.
IRC and California Code References
- IRC §61(a) – All income from whatever source, including crypto
- IRS Notice 2014-21 – Crypto treated as property for tax purposes
- IRS Rev. Rul. 2019-24 – Airdrops and hard forks
- Cal. R&TC §17041 -§17952 – CA resident sourcing and PIT
- FTB Publication 1001 – Withholding and sourcing rules
Key Crypto Tax Triggers in CA
- Crypto-to-fiat trades – Capital gains/losses
- Crypto-to-crypto swaps – Taxable under CA and federal law
- NFT creation and royalties – Ordinary income and self-employment tax
- Airdrops/forks – Taxable at FMV on date received
- Staking rewards – Treated as income upon receipt
Example: California-Based NFT Artist
Example: Sarah, a resident of Los Angeles, mints NFTs and earns ETH as royalties.
- Minting gas fees: Deductible as business expenses (Schedule C)
- ETH royalties: Ordinary income taxed at both federal and California PIT levels
- Crypto conversion: Triggering capital gains when ETH is sold for USD
Step-by-Step: CA Crypto Tax Compliance in 2025
- Track Every Transaction
Use tools like CoinTracker, Koinly, or TokenTax to log swaps, sells, and staking. - Calculate Federal and State Basis Separately
California may not conform to federal reliefs like wash-sale rules (yet). - Report Capital Gains on Schedule D and Form 8949
Include both short- and long-term transactions. - Report Self-Employment or Royalties
Use Schedule C for NFT creators or staking business models. - Maintain Wallet Addresses and Exchange Records
In case of audit by IRS or FTB.
Conclusion
Crypto gains are fully taxable in California. Whether you’re staking, flipping NFTs, or yield farming, expect the Franchise Tax Board to match federal treatment and go further on residency sourcing.
Plan proactively to avoid high PIT liabilities.
Call to Action
Navigating crypto taxes in California?
Book a crypto tax compliance review with Anshul Goyal, CPA, EA, FCA
Anshul helps:
- Crypto traders file federal + CA tax returns
- Creators structure staking/NFT income
- Minimize exposure to CA residency audits
Optimize your tax position before the next bull run:
https://calendly.com/anshulcpa/
Anshul Goyal, CPA, EA, FCA
Anshul brings 15+ years of U.S. and international tax experience. He specializes in helping online sellers, foreign founders, and U.S. residents with IRS and multi-state compliance. Known for his deep knowledge in Shopify and Amazon seller tax strategy, Anshul has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs minimize taxes and scale legally.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Please consult a qualified tax professional regarding your individual tax situation.
Top 5 High-Searched FAQs
1. Is crypto taxed in California?
Yes. California taxes crypto gains, staking rewards, and NFT income.
2. Do I need to report airdrops on my California tax return?
Yes. Airdrops are income and taxed at fair market value.
3. What if I moved to CA mid-year?
You may owe PIT on transactions sourced while a resident or from CA-based activity.
4. Are staking and mining rewards taxable?
Yes. Report them as income when received.
5. Can I use foreign exchanges without reporting?
No. Both IRS and FTB require disclosure of global crypto activity.