Taxation of Non-Fungible Tokens in Germany
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are enjoying great popularity around the world. What NFTs are exactly, we have described here. In this article, we explore the question of how NFTs should be classified for tax purposes.
Are cryptocurrencies and NFTs the same thing?
From a purely technical perspective, NFTs are nothing more than cryptocurrencies. However, with cryptocurrencies you have to distinguish between
- fungible tokens and
- non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
Fungible tokens always reflect the same asset, which is why it is of no concern to the holder which specific token is allocated to them.
A well-known example of this is the bitcoin (BTC). Just as it makes no difference to people in the analog world what specific banknote they own, the same is true for BTC holders. Every other BTC represents the same asset, so, for the holder, it makes no difference which bitcoin they receive. The BTC is therefore exchangeable ("fungible").
NFTs are unique
NFTs, on the other hand, are characterized by the fact that they are digital goods that are not interchangeable at will (non-fungible). In the case of artwork NFTs, the tokens depict an artistic image of which there is only one in existence. While it is technically possible to replicate the digital asset an infinite number of times, a certificate of authenticity stored on the blockchain ensures the singularity of the NFT.
But how are NFTs treated from a tax perspective? Due to the novelty of the topic, binding tax law guidelines are still lacking. Nevertheless, the following initial considerations can be made:
Tax issues in the production of NFTs (minting)
According to the tax assessment, there are two different ways to produce NFTs (minting), each of which entails distinct tax consequences.
- In the case of the production of digital works of art, income from an artistic activity is obvious. The prerequisite here is that the taxpayer performs a creative activity that involves a certain level of design.
- In addition, however, a commercial classification as a type of income is also conceivable. Among other things, the tax office assumes a commercial activity in the case of self-distribution of art in online trade. However, such a classification entails several disadvantages for the taxpayer, one of which is that trade tax must also be paid.
The specific individual case must be considered to determine which of the two types of income is present. Since neither the courts have issued a ruling nor has the German Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) released a clarifying letter on this, there is a great deal of legal uncertainty for manufacturers of NFTs in many cases. In order to eliminate this, it is advisable to have experienced experts in the field of crypto tax law assess the specific facts.
Taxation of NFT characters in computer games
The same considerations apply to manufactured NFT characters in the context of NFT computer games. If there is creative activity and the figure embodies a certain level of design, income from an artistic activity may accrue when such NFT characters are sold.
The boundaries of commercial activity are, however, quickly exceeded here as well. Depending on the individual case, commercial income may exist. To be on the safe side, a tax audit from a lawyer is advisable.
How is the trade of NFTs taxed?
While many private crypto investors do not make NFTs themselves, they do buy and sell NFTs and make profits. The question of taxation also arises for this group of persons.
The taxation of trading in NFTs has still yet to be clarified either by the tax authorities or by case law. In particular, it is unclear when trading in NFTs should be classified as commercial for the purposes of income tax law. The distinction as a commercial activity is of paramount relevance for the degree of tax liability:
Requirements for commercial activity in the case of NFTs
- As a benchmark for a commercial classification of NFT trading, it seems plausible to use the delimitation criteria defined for securities and foreign exchange trading developed thus far by the German Federal Fiscal Court (Bundesfinanzhof, BFH) and to apply the principles on which the German Federal Ministry of Finance (Bundesfinanzministerium, BMF) also relies in its draft letter on the taxation of cryptocurrencies published in 2021.
- However, it is not certain that the above principles can actually be applied to this form of NFTs. This is because, in its considerations, the German Federal Ministry of Finance only refers to fungible tokens, i.e. exchangeable cryptocurrencies, such as ETH and bitcoins. NFTs could also be treated similar to classic works of art, so that NFT investors could quite quickly be affixed with the stamp of commerciality for tax purposes, similar to eBay sellers. However, there is much to be said for treating NFTs in the same manner as conventional cryptocurrencies with regard to the question of the commercial nature of trading, i.e. applying the BMF draft to NFTs accordingly.
- Based on these principles, high requirements are placed on the existence of commercial activity. This requires activity as a trader or proceedings in a manner typical of a bank.
- According to the principles developed by the highest courts, merely a high number of NFTs sold is not sufficient for an affirmation of commercial activity on a regular basis.
- It is true that the aspect of the extent to which NFTs were bought and sold must be included. However, other points are also included in the overall picture. Specific indications of commercial trading, in addition to the scope of business, include, for example, maintaining an office or a professional organization to conduct business, exploiting a market by using specialized professional experience or knowledge, professional distribution or offering NFTs to a broad public.
he assessment of whether the sale of NFTs qualifies as commercial under these criteria is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Avoid commerciality
If crypto investors are classified as commercial NFT traders by the tax authorities, this will have far-reaching tax consequences.
- On one hand, additional trade tax is then incurred. This is usually falls between 7 and approx. 15 percent.
- Secondly, any profit is taxed regardless of a holding period. Commercial NFT sellers thus have no opportunity to make tax-free profits. In return, they can offset losses more easily.
Private trade with NFTs
- In the opinion of the tax authorities, cryptocurrencies fall under the characteristic of "other economic good," which is why the sale constitutes a private disposal transaction pursuant to Section 23 (1) Clause 1 No. 2 of the German Income Tax Act (EStG).
- There is much to suggest that the tax authorities will also apply this view to the tax classification of NFTs, so that private crypto investors who do not act commercially will generally realize a private sale transaction when selling NFTs.
- This is because the tendency is that the tax authorities do not distinguish between the individual subtleties of the tokens (in this case: fungible or non-fungible) but adheres to the blanket classification as "other economic good" for any crypto token.
The consequence of the existence of a private sale transaction in the case of the private sale of NFTs is that profits are taxed on the basis of the personal income tax rate if the sale takes place within one year of the purchase.
However, after the one-year holding period, crypto investors have the opportunity to earn tax-free profits. Since taking advantage of the holding period is reserved for private NFT dealers only, HODLers, in particular, should be careful not to slip into commercial activity. Together with an experienced crypto expert, a strategy can be developed to provide the tax authority with as few indications as possible for a commercial classification.
Tip:
Due to the ambiguous legal situation, crypto investors are well advised to disclose all their profits from trading NFTs to the tax office for the time being and list them as part of their tax return. With such an approach, the risk of accusation of tax evasion can be effectively avoided.
Note NFT VAT
As a rule, you do not have to worry about value added tax when trading fungible tokens such as Ether, Polygon, ETC or BTC, as, fundamentally, no tax must be paid.
Due to the uniqueness of NFTs, however, using them as a means of payment has so far not been an option. Therefore, there are good reasons for subjecting trade in NFTs to VAT.
What do I need to know about the Money Laundering Act for NFTs?
Commercial NFT traders should also be aware of the Money Laundering Act and the due diligence, risk management and other obligations contained therein. This is because such crypto traders could fall within the scope of the MLA as "traders in goods." Even the most frivolous violations of the provisions of the Money Laundering Act are subject to heavy fines.
WINHELLER advises crypto investors on NFT taxation in Germany
Do you have further questions about the taxation of NFTs in Germany? Do you need help with your crypto tax return? Are you uncertain whether your activity is subject to obligations under the Money Laundering Act? Our experienced tax experts for cryptocurrencies are at your disposal with their expertise on the topic of non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
Please feel free to take advantage of our extensive competence related to cryptocurrencies. The best way to reach us is by e-mail (info@winheller.com), or by phone (+49 69 76 75 77 80).
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