How to calculate cost basis for crypto
Cost basis is the total amount you paid to acquire an asset, and for crypto that means more than just the price. The correct formula is: (price per coin × quantity) + trading fees + network and transfer fees. Tax authorities including the IRS allow you to add acquisition costs to your basis, which lowers your taxable gain when you eventually sell. Skipping the fees inflates your reported profit and means you pay more tax than you owe — this calculator captures every component so your basis is accurate.
Why per-coin cost basis matters
When you sell only part of a holding, you need the cost basis of the specific coins you sold. Dividing total basis by quantity gives your per-coin basis, the figure used to compute gain on a partial sale. If you bought in multiple lots at different prices, each lot has its own basis, and your accounting method (FIFO, LIFO or specific identification) decides which lot's basis applies first. Start by getting each individual purchase right with this tool.
Fees that count toward basis
Includable costs generally cover exchange trading commissions, maker/taker fees, and blockchain network (gas) fees paid to acquire or transfer the asset into your wallet. Costs that typically do not count include ongoing custody fees and interest. When you receive crypto from staking, mining or an airdrop, your basis is usually its fair market value at the time you received it — a different calculation from a straight purchase.
Keep records for every acquisition
Cost basis is only useful if you can prove it. Save the trade confirmation, the fee breakdown and the network fee for every purchase. When you sell years later, this documentation supports the basis you report and protects you in an audit. Run each buy through this calculator and store the result alongside your records. Crypto exchanges differ on maker/taker fees, funding rates and maintenance-margin tiers, and tax rules vary by country. Treat these results as a planning baseline and confirm against your exchange statements and a qualified tax professional before acting.
Frequently asked questions
What is cost basis in crypto?
It is the total you paid to acquire the crypto — purchase price plus trading and network fees. It is subtracted from sale proceeds to calculate your taxable capital gain.
Do fees count toward cost basis?
Yes. Trading commissions and network/gas fees paid to acquire or move the asset are generally added to your cost basis, reducing your taxable gain.
How do I find cost basis if I bought multiple times?
Calculate the basis of each purchase separately, then apply an accounting method (FIFO, LIFO or specific ID). The average cost calculator blends multiple buys into one average.
What is cost basis for staking or airdrop rewards?
Usually the fair market value of the crypto at the moment you received it, which also counts as income at that time in many jurisdictions.