What is DAC8?

As of January 1, 2026, a new reporting obligation for cryptocurrencies will take effect across the EU: the DAC8 Directive (the 8th amendment to the Directive on Administrative Cooperation). This directive extends the EU’s automatic exchange of information to include crypto-asset transactions and implements the OECD’s international Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) at the European level.

What changes specifically?

• Increased transparency for tax authorities: Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) such as 21bitcoin, as well as certain wallet providers, will be required to collect specific data from their users starting in 2026. this data will be reported to the respective national tax authorities for the first time in 2027.
• Automatic Exchange: Tax authorities will then automatically exchange this information with one another across EU member states.
• Which data is collected? Reported information includes identification details (Tax Identification Number (TIN), address), transaction details (purchases, sales, transfers), and other relevant data regarding crypto-asset activities.

Why is DAC8 being introduced?

The objective of these new regulations is to combat tax evasion and avoidance while ensuring that capital gains from crypto transactions are correctly declared in tax returns. Given that cryptocurrencies are inherently cross-border, DAC8 establishes a standardized framework for the international exchange of information between tax authorities.

What does this mean for you as a 21bitcoin user?

1. Master Data: You will be required to provide your country of tax residence and your Tax Identification Number (TIN) as part of your profile information at 21bitcoin.
2. Visibility: Your crypto activities will become more transparent to tax authorities through trading platforms and wallet providers.
3. Personal Responsibility: You remain responsible for filing accurate tax returns—even if data is transmitted automatically. (Note: This excludes Austrian taxpayers, for whom we automatically withhold and pay the relevant crypto taxes).
4. Documentation: Maintaining high-quality documentation of your transactions, gains, and losses will become even more essential to avoid discrepancies with tax offices.

Summary

• What? EU regulation for the automatic reporting of crypto-asset data to tax authorities (DAC8 & CARF).
• When? Effective from January 1, 2026. The first reporting period covers the 2026 calendar year, with the deadline for reporting in July 2027.
• Key Takeaway: Increased transparency leads to greater responsibility regarding your tax compliance.

The introduction of DAC8 is a significant step toward greater transparency and oversight within the European crypto market. All service providers are required to implement these new standards. For you as a 21bitcoin user, this means your Bitcoin investment becomes part of a more regulated environment. Rest assured, your Bitcoin remains your property—at 21bitcoin, we only process your data to the extent strictly required by law.