Mining

Also known as: crypto mining, proof-of-work mining

Using computing power to validate proof-of-work transactions in exchange for block rewards, generally taxed as revenue income on receipt.

Definition

Mining secures proof-of-work chains like Bitcoin by solving cryptographic puzzles, with successful miners earning newly issued coins and transaction fees. Mining rewards are generally revenue income at their rand value when received, and that value becomes the base cost for any later disposal. Running mining as a business allows related costs — electricity, hardware depreciation — to be deducted against the income.

Example

Your rig earns mined coins worth R4,000 in a month; that R4,000 is income, against which you may deduct electricity and equipment costs.

Jurisdiction notes

  • South Africa: Mining rewards are generally revenue income at rand value on receipt; business miners may deduct related costs such as electricity.

See also