If your crowdfunding campaign ends around the turn of the year, it’s especially important to understand that, for accounting (tax) purposes, what often counts is the date the money is actually disbursed or received—not just when backers pay or when the project ends.
Please also note: It may take up to 21 days after the end of the funding period for the funds to be disbursed (provided your verification is complete and there are no additional requests from Stripe). Please take this into account when planning your timeline and—if applicable—when issuing invoices or donation receipts.
What you should specifically check
- When does your financing period end?
- When can I expect to receive the payment? (A few days to a maximum of about 21 days later)
- Have you completed the verification process? (Otherwise, the payment may be delayed.)
- Do you issue invoices, or do you need donation receipts? (The date may be important.)
Scenarios for the New Year
Scenario 1: Move-in before the end of the year – Payment after the end of the year
The money will be collected in the old year, but it won't be paid out to you until the new year.
What does that usually mean?
- Income Tax / Corporate Tax / Business Tax: What often matters is the date on which you actually receive the money (payment)—that is, in the new year.
- Sales tax: may vary depending on the method of taxation (accrual or cash basis) and the timing of the transaction—the key factor here is often when the service is provided (accrual basis) or when the payment is actually received (cash basis).
Scenario 2: Move-in before the end of the year – Payment before the end of the year
The money is collected in the previous year and paid out in the previous year.
What does that usually mean?
- In many cases, the tax classification also falls in the previous year because the inflow occurs in the previous year.
Scenario 3: Move-in after the New Year – Payment after the New Year
The money will be collected in the new year and paid out in the new year as well.
What does that usually mean?
- As a rule, both the receipt and the inflow occur in the new year.
Is it possible to postpone the payment date?
No. Once a campaign has ended, there is no way to change the payout date retroactively. Therefore, plan the campaign duration and your internal deadlines (e.g., accounting/taxes, invoicing) accordingly.
Additional information
- If you're unsure about the tax implications for your specific situation, please consult your tax advisor.
- If you have specific questions about your payout date (e.g., due to the end of the year), please contact us through Support.