TL;DR:
The MULTI method allows you to define a different calculation method (e.g. FIFO, LIFO, HIFO) for each tax year and ensures consistency when switching between methods.
What is the “MULTI” method?
The MULTI method allows you to define an individual tax calculation method for each tax year, such as:
FIFO
LIFO
HIFO
Instead of using one global method for the entire account, you can flexibly adapt to legal changes or personal tax strategies.
When is using the MULTI method beneficial?
Using MULTI is particularly useful in the following situations:
Adapting to legal changes
If tax regulations have changed over time.
For example, in Austria a new calculation method became mandatory starting in 2023.
Tax optimization
If you want to use an alternative method in a specific year to realize losses, while keeping the standard method in other years.
Example: If permitted, using LIFO in 2024 and FIFO in 2025.
Why should MULTI be used?
The calculation method chosen in one year directly affects the remaining holdings in subsequent years.
CoinTracking allocates coins based on the selected logic.
If the method changes, this affects:
Acquisition dates
Acquisition costs
Valuation basis for future disposals
To achieve valid results, the selected method must be applied consistently to all transactions — from the beginning of your transaction history up to the relevant cut-off date (end of the reporting year).
Only a continuous and logically consistent calculation ensures:
A consistent tax history
Correct carry-forward balances for future years
As soon as more than one calculation method is used, the MULTI method is recommended.
Otherwise, the calculation may contain inaccuracies.
Summary
The MULTI method allows flexible calculation methods per tax year. Since changing methods directly impacts holdings and future disposals, consistent application across the entire transaction history is essential. Whenever multiple methods are used, MULTI should be applied to ensure accurate results.