Illinois signs 0.2% cryptocurrency transaction tax, industry calls it one of the most anti-crypto laws in the U.S

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed the Digital Asset Tax Act on Tuesday, which will impose a 0.2% tax on the transaction value of digital asset transactions or services provided to customers in Illinois. The law will take effect on January 1, 2027.

The tax primarily targets crypto service providers, including exchanges, custodians, and brokers, requiring them to collect and remit the tax on behalf of their clients, similar to a sales tax. Industry organizations such as the Crypto Council for Innovation, Digital Chamber, and Illinois Blockchain Association strongly oppose the bill, stating it could become one of the most stringent digital asset tax regimes in the nation. Critics argue that the tax will impose additional costs on Illinois residents simply for using digital assets and may drive crypto businesses, developers, and innovation out of the state.