Crypto tax software solutions help users manage their tax responsibilities, while also allowing them to monitor their portfolio from a single dashboard.
As use cases for cryptocurrencies proliferate, taxes inevitably climb the priority and consideration ladders, accompanied by a growing year-on-year surge in adoption.
The following is an in-depth overview of ZenLedger, which has positioned itself as a leading solution in the field of crypto taxes. I will take a closer look at its features, how it compares to competitors, its pricing, jurisdiction coverage, and potential benefits for institutional users.
Main Takeaways:
- ZenLedger calculates digital asset taxes and generates up-to-date reports.
- The dashboard integrates several wallets, bringing multiple accounts under one umbrella.
- End-to-end state and federal tax filings for users.
- Comprehensive API access backed with strict compliance standards.
- Deep service integrations for DeFi protocols, NFTs, etc.
The Verdict
ZenLedger is a popular crypto tax software that allows users to track their portfolios in real time, calculate income taxes, and generate forms.
The platform stands out for being quite easy to understand, even for users not familiar with tax laws in the field of cryptocurrencies.
It offers downloadable tax forms, keeping users up-to-date with dynamic regulations. In addition to these, users are equipped with several tools to optimize crypto tax handling, including tax audit and tax loss harvesting. Generally, the platform is considered safe for all classes of investors following strict compliance and security measures.
Onboarding & User Experience
Quick Summary: Opening a ZenLedger account is straightforward and secure. The company prioritizes a friendly interface to ensure user satisfaction. Users can join with their Google or Coinbase accounts for convenience. Configuring your settings is easy, and once done, the platform delivers a relatively seamless user experience, compared to competing platforms like CoinLedger or Koinly.
Creating an account
To open an account, visit the website and click ‘Sign Up.’ You can register with your Coinbase or Google account. You can also use MetaMask. This widens user options for easy integration on the platform.
You can also sign up through a custom email and password and confirm details. After confirming your email, ZenLedger takes you to an onboarding screen where you input certain details before adding your wallets and exchanges.
After filling in all information and user details, you can now proceed to user settings.
Key Account Settings
Like every crypto software and application, you’re advised to customize security controls and accounting settings. Navigate to ‘Settings’ at the upper right corner to access profile, tax, and security options.
Under ‘Tax Settings’, you can choose country, base currency, the accounting method (FIFO, LIFO, etc) as well as other important requirements based on your location.
After this, I would also recommend turning on security settings like two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect your account.
Interface, dashboard, accessibility
ZenLedger onboards a user-friendly interface with a sleek design, aimed at both beginners and expert traders. From the dashboard, users can easily toggle between wallets, transactions, the tax center, and settings.
The Wallet Section displays integrated accounts and values, while navigating to the tax center will show total proceeds, capital gains, tax forms, etc.
Importing wallets, exchange APIs, and more
To import wallets and start analyzing tax data, you’ll need to navigate to the ‘Wallets’ page and select either ‘Add Wallet/Exchanges.’ You can choose from two main options: API connection or CSV file uploads.
Next, you’d see a list of supported wallets and exchanges. These include popular platforms like Coinbase, ETH Wallet, Binance US, Kucoin, etc. Select the desired wallet, add the address, and import successfully. It should be noted that non-supported wallets can still be integrated by a custom CSV file upload.
To use this method, you’ll have to download the transaction history from the exchange and upload it directly to the platform. After integration, ZenLedger syncs data, imports transactions, and scrutinizes for possible mistakes.
Supported Platforms
ZenLedger integrated most crypto exchanges, including;
- Coinbase
- Binance US
- Kucoin,
- Binance
And top wallets like:
- ETH wallet
- BSC Wallet
- SOL wallet
- DASH Wallet
Core Features & Integrations
Quick Summary: ZenLegder hosts a number of features and integrations that make it a preferable choice for many users. From the easy onboarding process to its comprehensive tools and capabilities, it helps for seamless tax filing. Furthermore, integrations made with third-party applications enhance overall user experience while safety and compliance features improve trust.
Crypto Portfolio Tracker
This is a core feature for most digital asset tax solutions in the market. It gives you an overview of all crypto holdings from connected wallets and exchanges in real-time. It supports accurate accounting, and not necessarily trading decisions. ZenLedger’s engine pulls data according to the current market value, giving you a snapshot and minimalistic charts.
Who it’s best for: Traders who want to keep tabs on their current holdings.
Pros:
- A very useful tool for account reconciliation.
- Gives users an accurate overview across platforms.
- Done automatically to reduce manual efforts.
Cons:
- Limited analytics since it is not built for trading.
- It is not optimized for mainstream investments.
Unlimited Transactions and Numerous Integrations
The tool allows you to connect multiple wallets and exchanges for better control. There are over 500 crypto exchanges and wallets, including decentralized finance options, so the vast range of integrations gives users a wide range. Also, as a ZenLedger user, you have access to unlimited transactions, although these options are for the Platinum Plan at a considerable cost.
Traders can add supported wallets and exchanges in a few steps and get their tax support immediately. Meanwhile, unsupported wallets can be added by importing custom CSV files.
Who it’s best for: Professional traders with large amounts of transactions on multiple exchanges and wallets.
Pros:
- No limit on transactions allowing better achievements.
- More range since all wallets are supported.
- Helps reduce errors since everything is connected.
Cons:
- Transactions might get bulky and overcrowded.
- Only available for the Platinum Plan.
Tax Calculation/ Form Generation
Needless to say, this is the crux of ZenLedger’s product offering. You can select the method of calculating the cost basis, and the platform takes over with its automated engine. It screens every single transaction in order to determine tax events, capital gains, and losses.
Basically, it groups transactions into buys/sells, transfers between two or more crypto wallets, and income from DeFi activities like staking, etc. It then identifies the cost basis by taking into account the date and price of acquisition, accounting standards in the jurisdiction, and more. ZenLedger works with all of the most popular cost basis methods – FIFO, LIFO, and HIFO.
Tax form generation also aligns because it provides standard reports by jurisdiction, keeping users compliant. These tax reports include IRS Form 8949, 1040 Schedule D, FBAR Report, etc.
Who it’s best for: All traders because being tax compliant is important and at the top of each trader’s use cases.
Pros:
- Automatic tax calculation saves time.
- Ability to handle very complex transactions.
- Wide range of downloadable crypto tax forms.
Cons:
- Some details might be challenging for beginners.
- Missing transactions will produce wrong results.
Tax Loss Harvesting
Tax loss harvesting shows you which of your crypto holdings have lost value since the time of purchase, allowing you sell and claim losses in tax. In most jurisdictions, crypto doesn’t fall within the wash sale rule, meaning that you can basically sell an asset at a loss and then rebuy this asset immediately after. Essentially, you “realize” the loss on paper for tax purposes but you keep holding the asset in case it recovers.
The goal is to constructively reduce tax liability by identifying these opportunities. ZenLedger accesses your crypto and NFT holdings in multiple steps, helping you make the right decision.
First, it compares unrealized positions with cost basis and market value. With this, it can identify positions in losses and their tax impact. On your end, you’d see a list of all assets in unrealized gains or losses and the impact a sale will have on your portfolio.
Who it’s best for: Small and active traders who want to maximize their tax positions
Pros:
- Traders can know which crypto assets are in the red zone.
- Helps towards long-term planning.
- Automatic analysis of tax data
Cons:
- There is often a limited analytical re-entry strategy.
- Potential sales are not automatic and need manual effort.
Security Features
ZenLedger prioritizes user account security through features designed to protect data. The software doesn’t hold funds or private keys of customers, ensuring connections use read-only API keys. ZenLedger has several security settings for users that help protect accounts, such as 2FA and session management.
User data is encrypted, ensuring there’s no unwarranted third-party access. Furthermore, compliance with global standards is top-notch. It integrates good audit trailing that traces gains or losses to specific accounts.
Who it’s best for: All traders who prioritize security and compliance with emerging global regulations.
Pros:
- Non-custodial control reduces security risks.
- Designed to protect traders with large transaction data.
- Removes compliance issues faced by many crypto users.
Cons:
- Compliance is more focused in the US than in other jurisdictions.
Integrations
Integrations ease up the entire workflow for crypto tax solutions. ZenLedger has multiple integrations, each performing a key function in the process. Basically, it connects encrypted data with external accounting tools to ensure compliance and good reporting.
Key integrations include consumer tax software like TurboTax and TaxAct, which help streamline the workflow with fiat systems. A laudable fact about these is the security protocols involved to protect user data.
Who it’s best for: Accountants and tax experts who need fiat-like compliance in digital assets.
Pros:
- Reduced manual entry in workflow.
- Helps reduce the risk of accounting errors.
- Boost productivity and ensure tighter compliance.
Cons:
- It might be complex for beginners.
- Some integrations are not available in the basic free version.
Pricing Plans
Quick Summary: ZenLedger offers three plan categories, ranging from free to standard paid and professional. You can check out our guide on free vs. paid crypto tax software to find out when each option makes most sense. Let’s have a closer look at whether ZenLedger offers a good bang for your buck.
Free Plan
Cost: $0
Includes: Up to 25 transactions, detailed audit reports, tax compliance standards, tax loss harvesting, TurboTax integration, etc. The free plan is mostly used by beginners and expert traders to test the platform. While it’s good for onboarding, it is usually limited in terms of features.
Silver Plan
Cost: $49/year
Includes: Up to 100 transactions, all detailed and audit reports, including other factors in the free plan. The silver package is the first boost from the free plan, and it is perfect for smaller traders with a few yearly transactions.
Gold Plan
Cost: $199/year
Includes: Up to 5,000 yearly transactions and all other benefits of the silver plan. This is the first plan to integrate DeFi/ staking and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). It is usually ranked as the most popular plan for most users because it expands the number of transactions, giving access to intermediate traders.
Platinum Plan
Cost: $399/year
Includes: Up to 15,000 transactions per year, DeFi compatibility, NFTs, etc. This plan further pushes up the number of transactions and includes other features in lower levels. Furthermore, it comes with an added customer support package.
Premium Support Consultation
Cost: $275/60-minute consultation
This is the first option that the tax professional prepared plans and includes access to an expert. Tailored questions can be asked of the tax professional concerning your portfolio after booking the 60-minute consultation.
Tax Pro Prepared Plan – Single Year
Cost: $2,800/ year
The tax pro plan allows you to audit/calculate all tax-related functions with a professional. This is mainly for large corporations and traders having so many complex transactions.
Tax Pro Prepared Plan- Multi-Year
This is another professionally prepared plan for the long-term and the highest within ZedLedger. It is considered best for institutions and traders with very large volumes.
Performance, Reliability & Support
Quick Summary: ZenLedger is usually regarded as a reliable cryptocurrency tax software because of features that are helpful to individual and enterprise traders, and in my use of it, this more or less checks out. The performance of all features for filing tax and audit portfolios is key to the overall platform. Customer service and support for traders, especially those in Tax Pro plans, have also bagged positive reviews.
Performance
ZenLedger can effectively manage large crypto portfolios, making it a good choice for investors. Wallets and exchanges are imported with ease, and users have a wide choice of integration without impacting performance. Tax summary and analysis are carried out on large data sets with losses calculated accurately without the risk of human error. However, this isn’t to say that the software works flawlessly. It does occasionally make mistakes, so I would highly recommend going through it manually to be on the safe side of things.
Elsewhere, the tool works well, and it does get the job done where it matters most.
Reliability
According to multiple online reviews, including on Reddit, Trustpilot, and other third-party review platforms, ZenLedger is a reliable crypto tax software. In my experience, this seems to hold up. Although it does have its drawbacks compared to some of its main competitors, such as CoinLedger and Koinly, the platform offers almost everything a user would need to effectively handle their yearly taxes. Depending on your level of involvement in the industry, it might be a good idea to also consult a professional CPA, but if you’re a casual crypto user or someone who’s not involved in managing very high-profile portfolios or high-frequency trading, ZenLedger is more likely to get the job done well.
Support
The company offers a complete support system for users and the general public. Users can contact support for any issue and get adequate assistance. However, users of the Tax Pro plan have better access to support and dedicated tax professionals. This helps traders get a better analysis of their portfolio and file properly.
ZenLedger Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-end tax consultation plans: ZenLedger offers plans that allow users to meet with tax professionals for better workflow.
- Standard Compliance: The platform is known for strict standard guidelines in the United States.
- Wider Integrations: ZenLedger has onboarded third-party accounting tools like TurboTax to aid the assessment of transactions and portfolios.
- End-to-end data encryption: Security protocols are standard, particularly end-to-end data encryption that ensures privacy.
- Friendly interface: The platform uses a straightforward and friendly interface to drive adoption.
Cons:
- DeFi integration in higher plans: DeFi and NFT holdings can be onboarded but reserved for users with higher plans.
- Complex Features: Generally easy to understand, although some high-end features might be complex.
- Only United States tax forms can be downloaded.
ZenLedger Alternatives & Comparison
Before choosing a crypto tax software, you have to weigh your options by comparing features, pricing, and pros and cons of different platforms. It is also important to check for compliance across jurisdictions and the ease of integrating wallets.
Alternatives to ZenLedger include CoinTracker, TaxBit, Koinly, CoinLedger, CryptoTrader, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is ZenLedger safe?
Yes, ZenLedger is a safe crypto tax software that deploys standard security practices. It uses end-to-end encryption to protect user data and implement strict read-only access for integrated wallets and exchanges.
Can I integrate with accounting software?
Apart from its own third-party integrations, users have export options to other accounting software. Exports are possible through CSV for wider analysis according to the customer’s preferences.
Is ZenLedger free?
ZenLedger has a basic free plan that helps onboard users. The free plan is a good starting point for beginners; however, it is limited in terms of the number of yearly transactions and high-end features.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, because of the free plan and friendly interface that users enjoy. A new trader doesn’t need much complexity especially with digital asset tax systems. The smooth and flexible process makes it desirable for new entrants.
Conclusion: is ZenLedger legit?
ZenLedger is a legitimate crypto tax software used by several traders and institutions. It has been operational for years and has partnered with multiple web3 and traditional finance institutions in that period. The real function that gives it legitimacy is the accurate tax service it provides traders. Furthermore, security features have also bolstered the platform’s credibility.
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