Crypto ITR checklist.

Tick through this before you file. Print it or save it as a PDF to share with your CA.

1. Gather your records

Annual tax or P&L reports from every Indian exchange you used
Full trade histories from any foreign exchangeGuide
Wallet histories for DeFi swaps, NFT sales and paymentsGuide
Rupee value on the day received for airdrops, staking rewards and giftsGuide
Purchase records showing what you paid for every coin you soldGuide

2. Check the tax department’s data

Download your AIS and Form 26AS from the e-filing portal
Compare the crypto TDS per exchange with your exchange reportsGuide
Ask exchanges to fix missing or wrong TDS entries before you file

3. Choose the right form

ITR-2 if no business income; ITR-3 if business income or you trade as a businessGuide
Never ITR-1 or ITR-4 if you transferred any crypto
Decide how you treat futures and options, with your CAGuide

4. Fill the return

Every sale, swap and spend in Schedule VDA, with dates, cost and sale valueGuide
Zero income on loss-making rows; no deduction for feesGuide
Airdrops and staking rewards received under the right income headGuide
Foreign exchange holdings in Schedule FA, if advisedGuide
Crypto TDS claimed in the TDS schedule, matching Form 26ASGuide

5. Pay and file

Work out 30% + 4% cess on gains, minus TDSGuide
Pay any balance as self-assessment tax before filing
File before the deadline, usually 31 July, and e-verify the same day
Keep all reports and records for at least six years

General guidance, not tax advice. Rules can change each year; check the portal and consult a professional for your situation.