Independent Funding for Independent Work
Civil society work requires financial security and independence. Bitcoin complements your existing financial infrastructure as a neutral, global donation channel.
At Bitcoin Austria, we use Bitcoin as our sole donation channel. We know what we’re talking about.
In Austria, Bitcoin donations are classified as in-kind donations and are not tax-deductible for the donor. Bitcoin Austria is advocating for equal treatment with monetary donations.
1. Opening New Donation Channels
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Borderless | Donations from anywhere in the world — no SWIFT, no correspondent banks |
| Low fees | Lightning payments are free for the recipient |
| Available right away | Lands in your wallet, not in an escrow account |
| Donor privacy | No need to share sensitive banking data |
Via the Lightning Network, you can receive micro-donations in real time. This works well for social media campaigns, livestreams, or crowdfunding.
2. Financial Autonomy: Independence from Third Parties
For organizations working in politically sensitive areas, the bank account is often the most vulnerable point. Banks freeze accounts, payment processors deplatform organizations, and political pressure cuts off funding.
Bitcoin changes this: as long as you control your keys, you can access your funds. This does not replace compliance obligations. It adds a layer to your financial infrastructure that depends on no single intermediary.
3. Transparency: Trust Through Verifiability
With Bitcoin, you can prove that donated funds exist in real time, without an auditor. Public wallet addresses, dedicated wallets for specific campaigns, and on-chain tracking for donors.
You decide how much to disclose. Bitcoin enables both: full transparency or selective privacy.
4. Getting Started
The simplest path
- Create a wallet: A free open-source app is all you need
- Generate an address: The app automatically creates a receiving address
- Integrate: Place the QR code and address on your donation page
- Done: You can receive Bitcoin
For regular donation volume
BTCPay Server is free, self-hosted, open-source software: full control, zero fees, automated donation receipts, and Lightning-capable. More on the technical integration in the Business Guide.
5. Compliance and Accounting in Austria
This is not tax or legal advice.
| Aspect | Rule |
|---|---|
| Valuation | Euro equivalent at the time the donation is received |
| Documentation | Record transaction ID, date, and euro exchange rate |
| Donation receipt | Bitcoin donations are treated as in-kind donations. A confirmation of the euro equivalent can be issued, but tax deductibility for the donor does not currently apply. |
| Capital gains | If sold later: the difference is taxable |
Tip on volatility: We recommend converting Bitcoin donations to euros at first. As you gain experience, you can adjust your strategy and build a Bitcoin position on your balance sheet.
6. Bitcoin Austria as an Example
We fund ourselves through Bitcoin donations alone. No bank account, no government grants. This gives us complete independence, both in content and organization.
FAQ
Is this legal?
Yes. Receiving Bitcoin donations is legal in Austria. The tax treatment is clearly regulated.
How do I explain this to my board?
Bitcoin is an additional donation channel that reaches new audiences. Immediate euro conversion eliminates exchange rate risk. Address concerns from traditional donors with clear communication (such as FAQs on your website) and internal education.
Are there NPOs in Austria that already accept Bitcoin donations?
Yes. In Austria, organizations including Caritas Vienna, SOS Children’s Villages, and Jugend Eine Welt accept Bitcoin donations. Jugend Eine Welt even runs a dedicated campaign at bitcoinspenden.at.
What should we consider before accepting Bitcoin donations?
Your organization should develop an internal Bitcoin policy that covers the donation process, how Bitcoin is securely stored, and how this is communicated externally. It makes sense to include Bitcoin acceptance in your organization’s bylaws.
Do we need technical expertise?
For getting started, a simple wallet app is enough. For more professional setups, we recommend consulting with or getting support from the community. Secure custody requires thorough preparation and clear internal policies.
What do we do with the donated Bitcoin?
The Bitcoin can be converted to euros, held medium- or long-term, or used as a means of payment. This is especially useful for international transactions.
Keep reading
We use Bitcoin as our only donation channel.
We know what we're talking about.