Read this short guide to learn the difference between Airdrops and Taxable Airdrops according to current crypto taxation regulations, and how to correctly report them in your CryptoBooks account.
What is an airdrop?
An airdrop is the free distribution of cryptocurrencies or tokens, usually by a crypto project for marketing purposes, rewarding loyal users, or promoting a new coin.
It does not require any payment from the recipient. However, sometimes minimal interaction is required (e.g., subscribing to a newsletter, using a platform, holding another token, etc.).
How are airdrops taxed in Italy?
“Pure” airdrop (free, without any action required)
Example: you receive tokens simply because you used a platform in the past, without taking any current action.
Taxation: not taxed at the time of receipt.
When it’s taxed: only when you sell the tokens, as a capital gain (if there’s a profit compared to the value at the time of receipt, which is considered zero if the airdrop was completely free).
Airdrop with consideration (taxable airdrop)
Example: to receive the tokens, you must perform an active action (like retweeting, completing tasks, filling out a form).
This type is considered income.
Taxation: taxed as “other income” with a 26% tax rate on the market value at the time of receipt.
Cost basis for future sales: the value at the time of receipt becomes your tax cost basis. If you sell later at a higher price, you pay taxes only on the profit; if you sell at a lower price, you have a capital loss.
Summary Table
Type of Airdrop | Taxed at Receipt | When Taxes Are Paid | Capital Gain Calculation at Sale |
Free airdrop (no action required) | ❌ No | At the time of sale (capital gain) | Sale price - 0 |
Airdrop with action (tasks, etc.) | ✅ Yes (26%) | Immediately, and later at sale* | Sale price - Market value at time of airdrop |
*At sale, you only pay taxes on the difference between the sale price and the received value, if there’s a profit.