Key Takeaways
- Detroit will begin accepting Bitcoin and crypto for tax payments in mid-2025 to modernize payment channels.
- The city’s Bitcoin and crypto payments will be processed via PayPal’s platform.
- Detroit encourages people in the Bitcoin and crypto ecosystem to propose civic applications.
Detroit’s Move to Accept Bitcoin Payments for Taxes
Detroit residents will be able to pay taxes and other city fees with Bitcoin and crypto starting in mid-2025.
This initiative aims to modernize Detroit’s payment channels and improve operational efficiency for city services.
The Detroit Office of Treasury announced that PayPal’s platform would handle the payments.
While Detroit has yet to specify which cryptocurrencies it will accept, PayPal currently supports Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, and its own stablecoin, PayPal USD.
Encouraging Blockchain Innovation and Business in Detroit
The new payment option reflects Detroit’s efforts to attract companies in the Bitcoin and crypto industry to the city.
Mayor Mike Duggan emphasized Detroit’s vision of creating a 'technology-friendly environment that empowers residents and entrepreneurs.'
Detroit is inviting entrepreneurs in the Bitcoin and crypto ecosystem to pitch civic application ideas to Justin Onwenu, the city’s director of entrepreneurship and economic opportunity.
Joining Other U.S. Cities in Bitcoin and crypto Payment Adoption
Once implemented, Detroit will join cities like Miami Lakes, Florida, and Willston, South Dakota, in accepting Bitcoin and crypto for taxes and city services.
States such as Colorado and Louisiana also support Bitcoin and crypto for specific civic payments through third-party platforms like PayPal or BitPay.
The Bitcoin and crypto industry anticipates supportive policies under the new Trump administration, potentially bolstering initiatives like Detroit’s.
