Coinbase only displays updated cost basis information the very first time your CoinTracker account is connected to your Coinbase account. Coinbase treats it as a one-time update, even though their platform indicates you can sync your cost basis information multiple times.
What you might be seeing on Coinbase
After resyncing, you’ll see a green check mark and ”Cost basis info updated,” as well as “Last synced” showing your most recent time stamp. However, the cost basis amount will not change, manual edit fields in Coinbase are disabled, and your YTD capital gains differ between Coinbase and CoinTracker.
Example:
- CoinTracker shows corrected cost basis for an asset (e.g., $1,024)
- Coinbase continues showing an earlier value (e.g., $135)
- YTD gains in Coinbase appear higher than in CoinTracker
Why does this happen?
When you connect CoinTracker through the Coinbase, CoinTracker sends updated cost basis data to Coinbase. That data is then stored on Coinbase—but only as a one-time update.
If you later modify cost basis in CoinTracker or re-sync your account, Coinbase does not overwrite the previously stored cost basis.
Example:
- CoinTracker shows corrected cost basis for an asset (e.g., $1,024) and you sync your account on Coinbase.
- Coinbase continues showing an earlier cost basis value (e.g., $135).
- YTD gains in Coinbase appear higher than in CoinTracker.
What should I do if I made updates after syncing my data?
If you updated transactions or fixed cost basis in CoinTracker after your initial sync with Coinbase, here’s what you need to know:
Use CoinTracker as your source of truth
CoinTracker reflects your most recent edits and cost basis adjustments. At this time, updates made in CoinTracker may not automatically update on the Coinbase side after the initial sync. Because of this, you should rely on your CoinTracker reports for the most accurate tax calculations.
File using your CoinTracker tax reports
When preparing your return:
- Download and use your CoinTracker tax reports for finalized gain/loss calculations.
- Upload any required Form 1099-DA documents provided by Coinbase during your filing process.
What to expect going forward
CoinTracker will continue to serve as your primary record of crypto taxable activity, including cost basis corrections and transaction reconciliation. We are actively working with Coinbase to improve how updates sync between platforms.
Still Need Help?
If you're unsure whether your cost basis is correct in CoinTracker or have questions about your tax reports, please contact CoinTracker Support and include:
- The asset name.
- Screenshots (if available).
- The date of your last sync.
We’re happy to help ensure your CoinTracker reports are accurate.