The date on which vested tokens become transferable to a recipient, often after a cliff period, under a vesting schedule.
For tokens received for services, the unlock is when income is recognized (absent an 83(b) election) because that is when you gain dominion and control. For tokens purchased in a presale with a lockup, the unlock is not income; basis was set at purchase and the holding period question depends on when you acquired the right.
For compensation tokens, yes: income at unlock unless an 83(b) election was made at grant. For purchased tokens, no; the unlock only makes them transferable.
Source: IRC 83; Rev. Rul. 2023-14
Last reviewed September 18, 2026. Tax rules change; confirm current law before acting.
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