How CPAs Are Helping Clients Navigate the New Crypto Boom in 2025

The Crypto Boom Is Back: What CPAs Must Know Before Your Clients Jump In This Year

Crypto’s 2025 resurgence is transforming accounting practices. Discover the crucial updates every CPA and business should know now.

Cryptoassets have stormed back into the financial mainstream in 2025, and this time, the landscape is more sophisticated than ever. New rules, successful crypto-related IPOs like Circle, a raft of spot ETFs, and government backing at both state and federal levels create fertile ground for accountants—and their clients—to revisit their crypto strategy.

Is there still risk? Absolutely. But the pressure—and potential returns—are greater than ever. For CPAs, now is the time to master the evolving conversation.

What’s Changed in 2025? A New Era for Crypto Conversations

Once viewed as a speculative bet plagued by exchange crashes and unpredictable swings, crypto has seen massive regulatory strides. U.S. lawmakers are relaxing restrictions on crypto 401(k) plans, while the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the FDIC have opened the door for more banks to support crypto operations.

Major crypto firms like Circle are setting Wall Street on fire with blockbuster IPOs. Meanwhile, headlines in Bloomberg, WSJ, and CNBC highlight everyday companies adding crypto payments to their toolkits.

No wonder clients are asking their accountants: Should we get in now, before it’s too late?

Q: Should I Recommend Crypto Investing to My Clients?

CPAs face a classic dilemma in 2025: help clients ride the crypto wave or warn them of the risks. It’s easy for clients to feel FOMO (fear of missing out) as bitcoin and other coins bounce back from last year’s lows.

Experts say CPAs must strike a balance. Yes, crypto is gaining legitimacy, but the asset remains volatile—bitcoin itself dived to $70,000 before rebounding above six figures. CPAs should stress diversification, risk assessment, and education before any client moves money.

How Can CPAs Navigate Tax and Accounting Challenges?

Despite the positive momentum, the IRS still treats crypto as a tax-reporting minefield. Every transaction—whether it’s a buy, swap, or payment—can mean fresh reporting and tax obligations. That’s not changing anytime soon.

In 2026, new IRS rules (sections 6045 and 6050I) will require universal wallet tracking and tighter oversight, making precise crypto accounting essential. DeFi broker regulations, scheduled for 2027, are still uncertain but looming.

CPAs must help clients stay ahead of recordkeeping demands and avoid surprises in tax season.

Q: Are Internal Controls Still Important with Blockchain?

Many assume blockchain’s immutability means easy security. The reality? Crypto remains a juicy target for hackers. Even top exchanges like Coinbase suffered breaches from sophisticated social engineering attacks this year.

The lesson: Robust internal controls are non-negotiable for any business or individual entering crypto. CPAs are uniquely positioned to help assess, build, and refine these controls, whether clients are accepting bitcoin payments or adding crypto to the company balance sheet.

How-To: Discuss Crypto Wisely With Your Clients

• Start with education—demystify assets, volatility, and long-term prospects
• Insist on robust controls—never trust technology alone
• Clarify updated IRS regulations and looming tax changes
• Tie any crypto exposure to the client’s overall risk appetite and goals

Crypto’s Next Chapter Is Unfolding Fast—CPAs: Don’t Get Left Behind!

• ✔ Stay current with federal and state crypto laws
• ✔ Proactively brief clients on IRS reporting changes for 2026+
• ✔ Partner with cybersecurity pros to audit internal controls
• ✔ Balance client interest in crypto with a clear-eyed, risk-based approach

The crypto surge is here to stay—make sure you and your clients are ready for what’s next. For regulatory updates and financial news, check IRS.gov and SEC.gov regularly.

References

• www.irs.gov