German tax knowledge

What is the German crypto tax-free threshold?

Last reviewed: August 15, 2026
Private crypto disposal gains fall under the section 23 (3) EStG threshold. Since 2024 it is €1,000 per calendar year, until 2023 it was €600. It is a threshold, not an allowance: exceed it and the entire yearly gain is taxable. Gains after the one-year holding period do not count toward it.
The facts in brief
Since 2024€1,000 per calendar year
Until 2023€600
TypeA threshold — exceeding it makes the whole gain taxable

Threshold or allowance?

An allowance leaves the part below the line tax-free. A threshold flips everything: €1,001 of gain in a year makes the first €1,000 taxable too. That is why the exact date — and a complete cost basis — matter.

Does each coin have its own threshold?

No. The line applies to all private disposals in the calendar year together, not per coin and not per exchange. What is already tax-free after one year of holding does not enter the threshold.

Frequently asked questions

Do losses count against the threshold?

Losses on private disposals reduce the gain of the same income type. Whether the line is still crossed depends on that yearly net.

Does the €1,000 line also apply to staking?

No. Staking rewards are usually other income with their own €256 threshold. That is not the same rule as for sales.

Is a report without purchase data enough if I am under €1,000?

No. Without cost basis you do not know whether you are really under it. Cost basis zero inflates the gain.

Read next

This guide structures the data issues and common German administrative practice. It is not tax advice. The assessment in your case stays with you and your tax advisor.

Close the history, then check the threshold

Import the purchases and close cost basis zero. Then you see whether the threshold applies — or only a gap.

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