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Crypto treasury basics for businesses: custody, controls and records

By Joshua Baskin, founder · Reviewed October 31, 2026 · Sources

Key takeaway 1
The IRS treats digital assets as property, so businesses must track basis and gains on each disposal.
Source: IRS: Digital assets
Key takeaway 2
Multisig accounts need several approved keys to move funds, so one lost or stolen key is not enough.
Source: Safe docs: What is Safe (multisig accounts)

A basic crypto treasury setup

The short lesson

If a business holds crypto, treat it like cash with sharper edges.

Policy: write down why you hold it, limits, who approves moves and what happens if someone leaves.
Custody: a multisig (for example 2 of 3 signers) or a regulated custodian.
Controls: separate who requests, who approves and who records. Test with small amounts.
Records: log every movement with date, value and purpose, and reconcile monthly.

In the US, crypto is property for tax, and each sale or payment can be a taxable event. Track cost basis.
US accounting rules (FASB ASU 2023-08) now measure many crypto holdings at fair value.
Use an accountant who knows digital assets. Rules differ by country.

Lesson game · earn XP

Perfect score = combo bonus. Each question returns in your spaced-repetition review.

Memory · spaced repetition

Flip each card, then say if you knew it. Missed cards come back sooner.

Should my business hold crypto?

That is a business decision for you and your advisers. This lesson only covers how to do it safely if you choose to.

Can we accept crypto payments without holding it?

Many payment processors convert to cash at checkout. Check fees, refunds and tax reporting.

Sources checked October 31, 2026. Rules change; check the official source before acting.

Education only. Not investment, tax or legal advice. We do not pick coins.