The DAC8 Directive (EU 2023/2226) was adopted in October 2023 and will introduce extensive changes to crypto-asset tax reporting and information exchange from 2026. Although the implementation date is approaching, many crypto enterprises, fintech companies, and private individuals have not yet adapted to the new requirements. Below, we explain what DAC8 means in practice and which common compliance gaps should be addressed as soon as possible.
Scope of Crypto-Asset Reporting – Which Assets Fall Under DAC8?
Under DAC8, service providers must report information regarding all “reportable crypto-assets,” which includes digital assets used for payments or investments, such as:
- Bitcoin
- Ethereum
- stablecoins
- NFTs with investment or economic value
- most altcoins
Assets excluded from DAC8 include:
- Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)
- certain types of e-money tokens
The aim is to focus reporting obligations specifically on assets that may be used to obscure taxable income or avoid tax obligations. nendele varadele, mille abil on võimalik maksukohustusi vältida või varjata.
Data Collection and Reporting – What Crypto-Asset Service Providers Must Do
Under the DAC8 framework, Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) must collect detailed information about both Estonian and foreign residents using their services. Reporting obligations do not apply to a single platform — they apply to all CASPs offering services to EU residents, regardless of where the company is based.
The data to be collected and reported includes:
Personal Identification Information:
- full name
- address
- date and place of birth
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Annual Aggregated Transaction Data:
- purchases
- sales
- exchanges
- crypto-asset transfers
- transaction volumes and fair market value
This information may only be used for taxation, control, and enforcement purposes, in accordance with Article 16 of the DAC8 Directive.inult maksustamise, kontrolli ja jõustamise eesmärkidel vastavalt DAC8 artiklile 16.
Key Dates and Reporting Timeline – When Do the Rules Apply?
DAC8 introduces a strict timeline that all businesses and individuals must be aware of:
- 31 December 2025 – EU Member States must transpose DAC8 into national law
- 1 January 2026 – DAC8 and the CARF framework come into force
- 30 June 2027 – first reporting deadline (covering transactions from 2026)
- every subsequent 30 June – annual reporting deadline
The reporting processes resemble FATCA/CRS, which many companies already know. The Estonian Tax and Customs Board (MTA) will receive detailed information on crypto transactions and compare it with users’ tax declarations. Information will also be exchanged with other jurisdictions to monitor cross-border transactions.
How DAC8 Affects Each Category of Taxpayers
Crypto Companies
Crypto companies are affected the most directly. DAC8 requires:
- full KYC procedures including TIN collection
- verification of AML information against CRS/FATCA classifications
- precise tracking and reporting of crypto transactions
- unified internal control and compliance systems
The directive specifically requires CASPs to detect “unexplained inconsistencies” in user profiles, which means companies need integrated data systems, trained staff, and strong internal governance. sisekontrolli.
Fintech Companies
DDAC8 also affects fintech companies that:
- provide crypto-related payment services
- handle tokenized assets
- facilitate crypto transactions
Even if a fintech company does not directly offer crypto-asset services, reporting obligations may still apply if the platform enables the movement, storage, or conversion of crypto-assets.
Fintech companies should thoroughly analyse their service structure and determine the extent to which DAC8 applies.
Private Individuals
For private individuals, DAC8 means that the Estonian Tax and Customs Board will receive detailed information on their crypto transactions—both domestic and international—starting from 2026. Individuals must:
- ensure that platforms have correct personal details (TIN, address)
- keep accurate transaction records
- file their tax returns correctly
- prepare for MTA to cross-check declarations with platform-submitted DAC8 data
If the information provided on the tax return does not match DAC8 reports, an automatic tax review may follow.
Who Must Comply and What Should Be Done Now?
At this stage, private individuals do not need to take direct action—platforms will contact them if additional information is required.
Crypto and fintech companies, however, must already begin:
- building data-collection systems
- aligning internal procedures with the DAC8/CARF standards
- updating compliance and internal control processes
All systems must be fully operational before the rules take effect in 2026.
Leadlex – Your Partner for DAC8 and CARF Compliance
The DAC8 Directive significantly reshapes the tax and reporting framework for crypto-assets. Companies that fail to update their systems and processes in time risk violations, audits, and enforcement actions.
Leadlex helps assess whether your company’s operations comply with the DAC8 and CARF requirements. We prepare the necessary guidelines, documentation, and internal procedures to ensure your organisation fully meets legal and international reporting standards. Learn more about our crypto and WEB3 services.
To avoid future risks, contact Leadlex — we support you every step of the compliance process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the DAC8 Directive?
DAC8 (EU 2023/2226) is an EU legal act expanding tax information exchange to the crypto-asset sector, aligning it with the OECD CARF framework.
Who is affected by DAC8?
The directive applies to all crypto companies, fintech platforms, and private individuals who hold or trade crypto-assets.
What are the main changes?
Mandatory reporting of crypto purchases, sales, exchanges, and transfers; collection of personal identification data including TIN; increased cross-border information exchange; and stronger internal control requirements for businesses.
Why should I work with Leadlex?
Leadlex has extensive expertise in crypto, fintech, and international tax regulation. We help ensure full DAC8 and CARF compliance and minimise regulatory risks for your business.