The IRS sent out a notice today reminding taxpayers and tax professionals that income from virtual currency transactions is reportable on income tax returns. From the IRS:

Virtual currency transactions are taxable by law — just like transactions in any other property. The IRS has issued guidance in IRS Notice 2014-21 that addresses transactions in virtual currency, also known as digital currency.

The notice provides that virtual currency is treated as property for U.S. federal tax purposes. General tax principles that apply to property transactions apply to transactions using virtual currency. Taxpayers who do not properly report the income tax consequences of virtual currency transactions can be audited for those transactions and, when appropriate, can be liable for penalties and interest.