Cryptocurrencies refer to digital or virtual assets backed by a unique digital registration system known as blockchain. These are decentralized and not controlled by a central entity; their value fluctuates according to supply and demand.
In Chile, cryptocurrencies are not considered legal tender or foreign currencies. Some examples of cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC), among others.
Any gain obtained by selling cryptocurrencies is considered taxable income. The way to declare these gains depends on whether you are a natural person (Global Complementary or Additional Tax, as applicable) or if you sold them as a company.
In the first case, as a natural person, you must be taxed with the Global Complementary Tax based on the income received or with the Additional Tax if you are not a resident of Chile. This is done on line 10, code [1032] “other Chilean source income subject to IGC or IA.”
In the case of legal entities that have cryptocurrencies assigned to their businesses, they must be taxed through the First Category Tax. In addition, they must consider the Global Complementary Tax or Additional Tax when withdrawing cryptocurrencies.
A company with residence in Chile is subject to the First Category Tax and Global Complementary Tax or Additional Tax, depending on its corresponding tax regime. On the other hand, a company without residence in Chile is subject to the First Category Tax and Additional Tax in the same tax year.
Profits must be calculated since they are not included in the Proposed Income Tax Return prepared by the SII. For this, the information declared by the “intermediary of purchases and sales of digital assets” (exchanges) regarding the purchase and sale operations of cryptocurrencies during the business year can be used. Then, the total annual income (higher value) obtained from these operations must be determined, and the information must be incorporated into Form 22, line 10, in the case of an individual and the first category, taxable income, in the case of companies.
It is essential to keep a detailed record of all your transactions with cryptocurrencies, including dates, amounts, acquisition costs, and sale values, to calculate profits and comply with tax obligations correctly and compliance. In addition, it is advisable to have tax and accounting advice to ensure compliance with current tax regulations in Chile, as tax laws can change over time, and it is essential to be aware of updates.