Crypto Tax in 🇩🇪 Germany (2026)
Updated June 2026· By Net Life Value Editorial
How a private crypto investor is taxed in Germany: Crypto held more than 12 months is completely tax-free under §23 EStG; gains within 12 months are taxed at the personal income-tax rate (14–45% plus solidarity surcharge) with a €1,000 annual allowance, and staking rewards are taxable income.
Crypto tax
How Germany taxes a private crypto investor — not part of the NLV score
Crypto held more than 12 months is completely tax-free under §23 EStG; gains within 12 months are taxed at the personal income-tax rate (14–45% plus solidarity surcharge) with a €1,000 annual allowance, and staking rewards are taxable income.
Crypto tax is national — these rules apply to a private individual investor, not a professional trader or company, and are not part of the NLV score. This is general information, not tax advice — rules change and depend on your residency and circumstances. Confirm with the linked tax authority or a qualified adviser.
What you would owe
Estimated tax for a private investor on a realised gain in Germany, by holding period. Figures in USD.
| Scenario | Rate | Tax | You keep |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 gain · Held 6 months | 42% | $3,746 | $6,254 |
| $10,000 gain · Held 2 years | 0% | — | $10,000 |
| $50,000 gain · Held 6 months | 42% | $20,546 | $29,454 |
| $50,000 gain · Held 2 years | 0% | — | $50,000 |
Simplified estimate — applies the headline rate, holding-period exemption and any annual allowance. Try the full calculator for any amount.
Germany crypto tax — FAQ
Is cryptocurrency tax-free in Germany?
It can be. Crypto held longer than 12 months is exempt for a private investor, while gains realised sooner are taxed at about 42%. Crypto held more than 12 months is completely tax-free under §23 EStG; gains within 12 months are taxed at the personal income-tax rate (14–45% plus solidarity surcharge) with a €1,000 annual allowance, and staking rewards are taxable income.
How is crypto taxed in Germany in 2026?
Crypto held more than 12 months is completely tax-free under §23 EStG; gains within 12 months are taxed at the personal income-tax rate (14–45% plus solidarity surcharge) with a €1,000 annual allowance, and staking rewards are taxable income. This applies to a private individual investor; professional traders and companies are taxed under different rules.
Do you pay tax on Bitcoin held over a year in Germany?
No. Once held beyond 12 months, a private investor's crypto gains are tax-free in Germany; sold sooner, they are taxed at about 42%.
How are crypto staking rewards taxed in Germany?
Staking rewards are taxed as income in Germany.
Is there VAT on buying or selling crypto in Germany?
No. Exchanging crypto for fiat money or for other crypto is VAT-exempt in Germany.
Is there a tax-free crypto allowance in Germany?
Yes. Roughly $1,080 of gains per year is exempt before the standard rate applies.
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Data last updated: · Sources: Crypto-tax treatment reviewed 2026-06-01 from official sources — see the panel above. General information, not tax advice.. See methodology.