Money changed hands. Is it taxable?
Pick what kind of money it was — barter, canceled debt, crypto, a work prize, rental income, insurance payout, and more — for a plain-English answer.
Answer the questions.
Your answers drive the verdict — no account, no tracking.
LIKELY OUTCOME
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How each answer was treated
The default rule
The IRS starts from “taxable” and works backward. If no exemption clearly covers it, assume it’s income.
When in doubt, report itReporting income you didn’t owe tax on costs nothing. Hiding income you did owe tax on costs plenty.