How to Declare Crypto on Your Brazilian Tax Return in 2025?

Written By

Picture of CA Ankit Agarwal
CA Ankit Agarwal

Head of Tax | KoinX

Learn how crypto cost basis works and track your profits accurately with this beginner-friendly tax guide.

Declaring your crypto holdings in Brazil has never been more urgent. With the 2025 tax return covering both the old and new regimes, even small errors could result in penalties. Receita Federal now requires more detailed reporting, and the recent removal of the BRL 35,000 exemption means nearly all gains are taxable.

From April 30 annual filing to new quarterly capital gains payments, the process is no longer once a year. Whether you use Brazilian exchanges, offshore platforms, or self-custody wallets, every transaction may be monitored. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to declare your crypto assets and earnings correctly in 2025.

Key Filing Deadlines for the 2025 Tax Year

Filing deadlines in Brazil are strict, and missing them can lead to penalties or flagged tax returns. In 2025, crypto investors need to keep track of three separate timelines: the annual income tax return, the quarterly capital gains tax payment (post–June 12 operations), and the monthly offshore transaction report.

Here’s a quick overview of the key deadlines:

Declaration Type

Reference Period

Deadline

Relevant Notes

Annual Income Tax Return (DIRPF)

Calendar Year 2025

April 30, 2026

Report income and crypto holdings

Capital Gains Tax Payment (via DARF)

Quarterly (from June 12, 2025)

End of each quarter

Applies 17.5% flat tax on all gains

Monthly Crypto Operations Statement (DME)

Monthly (if > BRL 30,000 offshore)

Last business day of each month

For foreign/off-exchange crypto transactions

Tax Forms Required to Declare Cryptocurrency in Brazil

Brazilian taxpayers must use specific Receita Federal forms and programs to report their crypto holdings, gains, and activities. Each serves a distinct purpose and has its own filing rules. Understanding when and how to use these forms is essential for avoiding penalties and ensuring full compliance.

DIRPF – Annual Income Tax Return

The DIRPF (Declaração de Imposto de Renda Pessoa Física) is the main annual income tax return where individuals report their income, assets, and liabilities. Crypto holdings with an acquisition cost of BRL 5,000 or more must be declared in the “Bens e Direitos” (Assets and Rights) section. This is also where income from mining, staking, or crypto payments is reported as taxable income. The deadline for submitting the DIRPF is April 30, 2025.

GCAP – Capital Gains Program

GCAP (Programa de Apuração dos Ganhos de Capital) is used to calculate capital gains on asset disposals, including crypto sales on Brazilian exchanges. It generates a report that can be exported as a .TXT file and imported into the DIRPF. GCAP is not used for transactions on international exchanges conducted before June 12, 2025, those are reported directly in the DIRPF.

DME – Monthly Crypto Operations Statement

The DME (Declaração de Operações com Moeda Eletrônica) is required when the total value of crypto transactions on offshore platforms exceeds BRL 30,000 in any given month. This includes buying, selling, and trading outside Brazilian exchanges. It must be submitted by the last business day of the following month and includes transaction details, wallet info, and fair market values in BRL.

Step-by-Step Process to Declare Crypto in the DIRPF

To properly declare your cryptocurrency holdings and income in Brazil’s DIRPF for 2025, you’ll need to use the official Receita Federal program. Below are the exact steps to ensure your crypto assets are correctly filed under the “Bens e Direitos” (Assets and Rights) section.

Access the “Bens e Direitos” Section

After launching the DIRPF program, navigate to the “Bens e Direitos” tab. This is the section where you must declare any assets owned as of December 31, 2025. If your crypto holdings exceed BRL 5,000 in acquisition cost, they must be reported here.

Select Group 08 – Criptoativos

Once inside the “Bens e Direitos” section, choose Group 08 – Criptoativos from the dropdown. This group is specifically designated for all virtual assets, including cryptocurrencies and NFTs. Failing to use this correct group may result in data mismatch or flagging by Receita Federal’s automated systems.

Use the Appropriate Crypto Asset Code

Under Group 08, you’ll be prompted to select a code that matches the type of crypto asset you hold. The available codes are:

  • Code 81 – Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Code 82 – Other cryptocurrencies (e.g., Ethereum, Solana, Cardano)
  • Code 83 – Stablecoins (e.g., USDT, USDC, BUSD)
  • Code 89 – Other crypto assets (e.g., NFTs, fan tokens)

Choose the correct code for each asset you report. Multiple types of crypto should be declared under separate entries.

Fill in the Discrimination Field

In the “Discrimination” (Descrição) field, provide detailed information for each crypto asset:

  • The quantity of tokens held
  • The name of the exchange or platform (include CNPJ if Brazilian)
  • Wallet model or custody method if self-custodied

The acquisition cost in BRL. This field must reflect the values and details as of December 31, 2025.

Complete the Asset Value Section

Enter the total acquisition cost in BRL. This is not the current market value but what you originally paid for the assets, including fees. The value must match your records and can be verified through receipts, transaction logs, or platform statements.

How to Report Capital Gains Using GCAP?

If you sold cryptocurrencies on Brazilian exchanges during 2024, you’ll need to use the GCAP (Programa de Apuração dos Ganhos de Capital) to calculate and report your capital gains. This program works alongside the DIRPF and is mandatory for compliant filing.

Open and Set Up the GCAP Program

Start by downloading and launching the GCAP 2024 version from Receita Federal’s website. Choose the correct tax year (2024 or 2025) and fill in your personal details. This creates a new file where your crypto asset disposals will be reported.

Input Crypto Sale Transactions

For each taxable event, input the following:

  • Date of the transaction
  • Type of asset sold (cryptocurrency)
  • Quantity sold and sale price in BRL
  • Cost basis (what you paid + any fees)
  • Any applicable deductions (e.g., brokerage fees)

Note: Ensure the transaction data aligns with your records from exchanges and wallets.

Complete the Capital Gain Calculation

GCAP will automatically calculate the gain or loss by subtracting the cost basis from the sale price. If gains exceed the BRL 35,000 threshold (for operations before June 12, 2025), the system will apply the progressive tax rate, starting at 15% and going up to 22.5% depending on volume.

Export the GCAP Report for DIRPF

Once all transactions are entered, finalize your GCAP report. Then export it as a .TXT file, which you’ll later upload into the DIRPF program. This ensures your capital gains from crypto are correctly reflected in your annual return.

Note: For International Exchanges: 

If you traded crypto on foreign exchanges before June 12, 2025, the BRL 35,000 exemption does not apply. In these cases, you do not use GCAP. 

Instead, report such gains directly in the DIRPF under “Rendimentos Sujeitos à Tributação Exclusiva/Definitiva”.

Reporting Monthly Offshore Crypto Transactions with DME

If your crypto trading activity outside Brazilian exchanges exceeds BRL 30,000 in any given month, you’re required to submit a Monthly Crypto Operations Statement (DME). This ensures Receita Federal is informed about your offshore or decentralized activities. Here’s how to file it correctly.

Identify If You Crossed the BRL 30,000 Threshold

At the end of each month, add up the total value of your crypto transactions conducted outside Brazilian exchanges, this includes buying, selling, and swapping. If the total (not just profits) exceeds BRL 30,000, you are obligated to file a DME for that month.

Log In to the Receita Federal e-CAC Portal

Visit the Receita Federal’s e-CAC portal using your CPF and secure code. Navigate to the DME section, which is available under declarations. Make sure to use your individual profile, not a company login.

Fill in the Transaction Details

For each offshore or decentralized transaction, enter:

  • The exact date of the operation
  • The type of crypto asset (e.g., BTC, ETH, USDT)
  • The quantity transacted
  • The fair market value in BRL at the time of the transaction
  • The wallet address or exchange name where the transaction occurred

Ensure accuracy, especially with the BRL values, Receita Federal may cross-check this with data from foreign exchanges or blockchain explorers.

Submit by the Last Business Day of the Following Month

Each DME must be submitted before the last working day of the month following the transaction month. For example, if you crossed the BRL 30,000 threshold in July, you must file the DME by the end of August.

How to Calculate Crypto Gains and Cost Basis in Brazil?

Accurately calculating your gains is essential for declaring your crypto taxes in Brazil. Receita Federal allows two official methods: FIFO and Average Cost Basis (ACB). Here’s how to apply them step-by-step and ensure full compliance.

Determine the Cost Basis for Each Crypto Asset

The cost basis is the total BRL value you paid to acquire the crypto, including any applicable fees (brokerage, gas, exchange fees). 

For example, if you bought 1 SOL for BRL 800 and paid BRL 10 in fees, your cost basis is BRL 810. If the asset was received via staking, mining, or payment, the cost basis equals its fair market value in BRL on the day you received it.

Choose Between FIFO or ACB Method

If you hold multiple units of the same token, you must choose a consistent accounting method to calculate gains:

  • FIFO (First-In, First-Out): The oldest units purchased are considered sold first.
  • ACB (Average Cost Basis): You average the purchase cost of all units held, including fees.
    Whichever method you use must be consistently applied across the entire tax year.

Calculate the Capital Gain or Loss

You can do it using the given formula: 

Capital Gain or Loss = Sale Price – Cost Basis

  • If you sold 1 ETH for BRL 10,000 and your cost basis was BRL 7,500, your gain is BRL 2,500.
  • For crypto-to-crypto trades, use the BRL market value of the asset you received as the sale price.

This applies to all sales, swaps, and spending transactions.

Include Income from Crypto Activities

For income sources like mining, staking, or crypto payments, calculate the BRL value at the moment you received the assets. These are not capital gains, they’re reported as income in the DIRPF.

Record All Fees and Market Prices

Track and keep the following records:

  • All acquisition and sale fees
  • The market value of each token on the transaction date 

These details are critical to support your cost basis in case of audit.

What Records Do You Need To Keep For Filing Crypto Taxes in Brazil?

Maintaining accurate records is not just best practice, it’s required by Receita Federal. Given Brazil’s strict audit protocols and expanded oversight on crypto, your documentation should cover every detail of your trades, holdings, and earnings. Here’s exactly what to track and why it matters.

Transaction History

Maintain a complete log of all transactions, including:

  • Date and time of each transaction
  • Type (buy, sell, swap, receive, or spend)
  • Quantity of the asset
  • Platform or wallet used
  • Market price in BRL at the time

This record is the foundation for your cost basis and gain calculations.

Fair Market Values

For any crypto earned through non-purchase means, mining, airdrops, staking, or as payment, record the fair market value in BRL on the day you received the asset. This figure establishes your income amount or cost basis for future disposal.

Exchange Statements

Download and save detailed monthly or quarterly statements from every exchange you use (Brazilian and international). These statements should include:

  • Trade history
  • Deposits and withdrawals
  • Fee summaries
  • Account balances

Receita Federal may request these as supporting documents in case of review.

Wallet Addresses and Transaction Hashes

If you use self-custody wallets, document:

  • The full wallet address
  • Transaction hashes for each incoming or outgoing movement

This helps verify ownership and transaction legitimacy, especially for assets not held on exchanges

Fees and Charges

Store proof of all fees paid during crypto transactions, such as:

  • Exchange or trading fees
  • Blockchain gas fees
  • Brokerage charges 

These costs can legally be included in your cost basis, reducing your taxable gain.

Penalties for Errors or Missed Declarations

Mistakes in your crypto tax return, or failing to declare at all, can lead to serious consequences in Brazil. Receita Federal uses automated tools and data-sharing agreements to detect discrepancies, and penalties can apply even for minor errors.

Late Filing of DIRPF

If you fail to submit your Annual Income Tax Return (DIRPF) by the April 30 deadline, you will face a minimum fine of BRL 165.74, which can increase to up to 20% of the tax owed, plus daily interest. This applies regardless of whether crypto is your main source of income.

Fines for Omitted or Incorrect Crypto Information

Missing or misreporting your crypto holdings, trades, or gains can trigger additional penalties. Receita Federal actively cross-references DME data, exchange reports, and wallet activity to identify undeclared assets. Penalties vary depending on the severity but often include:

  • Immediate fine assessments
  • Mandatory corrections with interest
  • Risk of having your tax return flagged for deeper review

CPF Blocking and Refund Delays

Taxpayers flagged for non-compliance may have their CPF status marked irregular, which affects access to credit, employment, and government services. Additionally, any refund you’re owed may be delayed until your return is corrected and cleared.

Risk of Full Audit

In cases of repeated errors or high-value discrepancies, Receita Federal may launch a full audit. This can include demands for transaction records, exchange logs, wallet information, and proof of ownership. If data is missing or inconsistent, further penalties or legal action could follow.

Expert Tips for Crypto Investors Filing in 2025

With Brazil’s crypto tax rules becoming stricter, a smart and well-prepared approach is essential. Here are some practical recommendations to help you stay compliant and optimize your filing process.

Don’t Assume Old Exemptions Still Apply

The BRL 35,000 monthly exemption is no longer valid for transactions from June 12, 2025 onward. All crypto gains, regardless of size, are now taxed at a flat 17.5%. Filing based on outdated exemptions could lead to errors and penalties.

Track Self-Custody and Offshore Holdings

Even if your crypto is stored in a hardware wallet or on a foreign platform, you must report it. Receita Federal has explicitly expanded its oversight to cover self-custodied and offshore assets, so ensure these are included in DIRPF, GCAP, and DME when applicable.

File Capital Gains Quarterly When Required

From mid-2025, capital gains are no longer calculated only annually. You’re now required to assess and pay tax quarterly using the DARF system for operations conducted after June 12. Missing these quarterly filings can result in accumulating fines and interest.

Use Professional Help or Crypto Tax Software

Crypto reporting involves multiple platforms, asset types, and transaction formats. Manual calculation is risky and time-consuming. Use KoinX, a specialized crypto tax tool to ensure accurate cost basis, correct form usage, and penalty-free reporting.

Stay Consistent With Accounting Methods

Choose either FIFO or ACB as your cost basis method and apply it consistently throughout the year. Switching methods without justification may raise flags with Receita Federal and result in rejected filings or audit requests.

How KoinX Simplifies Crypto Declarations in Brazil?

As crypto tax rules in Brazil become more complex, KoinX offers a streamlined solution for staying compliant. It eliminates manual work, supports Brazilian reporting formats, and helps you avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re a casual trader or a high-volume investor, it ensures that every transaction is accurately tracked and reported on time.

Auto-Imports From Exchanges and Wallets

KoinX seamlessly connects with 300+ exchanges, wallets, and DeFi platforms, including both local and international services. It automatically pulls in your entire transaction history, removing the need for manual data entry. This guarantees that no trade or transfer is missed, especially when dealing with offshore holdings or high-frequency transactions.

Tracks Holdings and Quarterly Gains in Real-Time

With the introduction of quarterly tax filings from June 2025, real-time tracking is critical. KoinX gives you a live view of your portfolio performance and capital gains across all assets. This enables timely tax estimation and prevents surprises at filing time. You’ll always know what’s owed, and when, without relying on spreadsheets.

Supports FIFO and ACB Cost Basis Methods

KoinX fully supports Brazil’s approved accounting methods, FIFO and ACB, to calculate your cost basis correctly. It applies these rules to every transaction and adjusts for fees, ensuring compliance with Receita Federal’s expectations. Whether you choose one method or the other, KoinX applies it consistently throughout your reports.

Brazil-Specific DIRPF and GCAP Reports

KoinX generates ready-to-use reports tailored for Brazil’s tax forms like DIRPF and GCAP. The reports are fully structured for direct import into Receita Federal’s systems, saving time and reducing the chance of form errors. They also include breakdowns for each crypto asset, formatted with the correct local tax codes.

Clean Audit-Ready Documentation for Receita Federal

Every transaction, price point, fee, and asset movement is documented and stored by KoinX. In the event of a tax audit, you’ll have a fully organized record that meets Receita Federal’s documentation standards. This reduces stress, avoids penalties, and demonstrates transparency.

Avoid crypto tax stress in Brazil, start using KoinX to file accurately, stay compliant, and keep your portfolio audit-ready.

Conclusion

Filing your Brazilian tax return with crypto in 2025 demands greater precision than ever before. With new quarterly payments, the end of exemptions, and expanded oversight on offshore assets, even minor errors can trigger audits or penalties. A structured, compliant approach is no longer optional, it’s essential.

Whether you’re trading locally or internationally, KoinX ensures your declarations are timely, complete, and audit-ready, so you can file with confidence. Start using KoinX today to automate your crypto tax filings, stay compliant with Receita Federal, and generate accurate reports without any manual effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Declare Crypto If I Only Hold It and Don’t Trade?

Yes, if the acquisition cost of your crypto holdings exceeds BRL 5,000, you must declare them as assets in your DIRPF, even if you haven’t made any trades or generated income.

Can I Use the Same Crypto Code for Multiple Assets in DIRPF?

No, each type of crypto asset should be reported under its correct code. For example, Bitcoin is code 81, stablecoins are code 83, and NFTs are code 89. Using incorrect codes may cause discrepancies in your filing.

Is There a Penalty for Using the Wrong Cost Basis Method?

Yes, inconsistency in applying FIFO or ACB can lead to rejection of your capital gains report or even trigger an audit. Receita Federal expects consistency in the chosen method throughout the tax year.

How Are Crypto Airdrops Handled in Brazilian Declarations?

Airdrops must be reported using their BRL market value on the day received. This value becomes your cost basis. If disposed of later, capital gains tax applies based on the difference between sale and acquisition value.

Written By

Picture of CA Ankit Agarwal
CA Ankit Agarwal

Head of Tax | KoinX

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