Detroit to accept cryptocurrency tax payments through PayPal

Residents in Detroit will soon be able to pay their taxes and other fees using cryptocurrency through a secure platform managed by PayPal.

The move will make Detroit the largest city in the US to accept cryptocurrency payments.

Currently, only Colorado, Utah and Louisiana accept cryptocurrency for state payments.

The scheme is part of a wider strategy by the city to explore alternative payment technologies, which the city says could improve public services, strengthen civic engagement, and improve economic growth.

The city said the service will make it easier for residents to make payments, adding that it demonstrates its support for blockchain technology entrepreneurs “who want to make a difference.”

Nikhil Patel, Treasurer of Detroit, said the service will be available from mid-2025 along with other improvements to city payment services.

“The Treasurer’s Office is committed to modernizing our payments channels and processes to enhance the customer experience and improve internal operational efficiency,” Patel said. “This new payment platform will increase accessibility for Detroiters who would like to use cryptocurrency; more importantly, the platform upgrade will also make it easier for Detroiters to make electronic payments – including those who may be unbanked.”

Additionally, the city of Detroit says it is accepting proposals from entrepreneurs for blockchain applications which could improve transparency and data security as well as improving public services.

The city added that its call out for proposals positions Detroit as a place for entrepreneurs and ideas “to thrive.”

The move comes as the price of bitcoin soars after Donald Trump was elected US president last week.

During his election campaign, Trump told voters that he was going to make the US the “crypto capital of the planet”.



Share Story:

Recent Stories


The future-ready CFO: Driving strategic growth and innovation
This National Technology News webinar sponsored by Sage will explore how CFOs can leverage their unique blend of financial acumen, technological savvy, and strategic mindset to foster cross-functional collaboration and shape overall company direction. Attendees will gain insights into breaking down operational silos, aligning goals across departments like IT, operations, HR, and marketing, and utilising technology to enable real-time data sharing and visibility.

The corporate roadmap to payment excellence: Keeping pace with emerging trends to maximise growth opportunities
In today's rapidly evolving finance and accounting landscape, one of the biggest challenges organisations face is attracting and retaining top talent. As automation and AI revolutionise the profession, finance teams require new skillsets centred on analysis, collaboration, and strategic thinking to drive sustainable competitive advantage.