The 1099-DA Readiness Checklist.
Starting with 2026 sales, crypto brokers report your cost basis to the IRS — but only for assets bought after 2025 and never moved. Everything else can arrive with proceeds and no basis. This is what to fix before the first of those forms lands in early 2027.
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- Which of your holdings the IRS will see with basis, and which it won’t
- How to close out the 2025 forms already in the IRS matching system
- The records to pull now, before platforms and deadlines move
- Year-end moves that still count for 2026
The dates that decide what the IRS sees.
Mismatch notices follow information returns. The window to get ahead of them is before the forms arrive.
- Early 2026First 1099-DAs
2025 sales, gross proceeds only — no basis. Already in the IRS matching system.
- 15 Oct 2026Extension deadline
Last day to file a 2025 return on extension. Report crypto in Form 8949 boxes G–L.
- 31 Dec 2026Year-end
Last day for 2026 loss harvesting and lot decisions to count this year.
- 1 Jan 2027Backup withholding
Deferral under Notice 2025-33 ends. Unverified TINs can mean withholding from proceeds.
- Early 2027First basis reporting
1099-DAs for 2026 sales show basis for covered assets — and gaps for everything else.
Dates reflect IRS guidance as of September 2026 and can change. General information, not tax advice.
What people ask about 1099-DA.
When do brokers start reporting crypto cost basis?
For sales made in 2026, on forms furnished in early 2027 — and only for covered assets: acquired after 2025 in that broker’s custody and held there until sale. Forms for 2025 sales reported gross proceeds only. Read the box-by-box guide →
Why would my 1099-DA show no cost basis?
Usually because the asset is noncovered — bought before 2026, or transferred in from another wallet or exchange. The broker may check box 9 and leave box 1g blank. Your own records then have to support the basis on your return.
Which Form 8949 boxes do I use for crypto?
Boxes G, H, or I for short-term and J, K, or L for long-term. The instructions say not to use boxes C or F for digital assets.
I already got a CP2000 about crypto. Is the checklist enough?
No — reply by the date printed on the notice, and get help if the numbers aren’t simple. As Enrolled Agents we can represent you before the IRS. Book a free 15-minute call →
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