Detroit to Accept Crypto for Taxes, Invites Blockchain Devs to Shape the City’s Future

Detroit is preparing to become one of the first major U.S. cities to allow residents to pay taxes and other city fees using cryptocurrency. In an announcement on November 7, Detroit’s Office of Treasury confirmed that residents will have the option to pay through a “secure payment platform managed by PayPal” starting mid-2025. This initiative aims to enhance the city’s financial infrastructure, streamline operations, and signal Detroit’s support for blockchain-driven solutions.

While the announcement did not specify the exact cryptocurrencies that will be accepted, PayPal currently supports prominent digital assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Litecoin (LTC), and its own stablecoin, PayPal USD (PYUSD). The move reflects Detroit’s commitment to “modernizing” its payment systems while positioning itself as an attractive destination for blockchain-focused businesses.

Detroit Welcomes Blockchain Visionaries

Beyond simply accepting crypto payments, Detroit is actively inviting blockchain entrepreneurs and innovators to propose ideas for enhancing civic services through blockchain technology.

This initiative, led by Justin Onwenu, Detroit’s director of entrepreneurship and economic opportunity, will remain open until December 15, allowing interested innovators to submit their concepts via email. Onwenu emphasized the city’s enthusiasm to hear from entrepreneurs who can leverage blockchain to drive efficiency, accessibility, and transparency in municipal operations.

Mayor Mike Duggan echoed the city’s tech-forward vision, explaining that Detroit seeks to foster a technology-friendly environment that both empowers residents and attracts entrepreneurial talent. The city hopes that this open-minded approach will encourage blockchain startups to establish roots in Detroit and help fuel the city’s economic growth.

Crypto Momentum Builds with National Support

Detroit’s crypto initiative aligns with a growing trend among U.S. cities and states, including Miami Lakes, Florida, and Willston, South Dakota, which have also integrated cryptocurrency options for civic services. In Detroit’s case, the rollout comes on the heels of Donald Trump’s election as U.S. president. With a pro-crypto stance, the industry is anticipating regulatory clarity, with some even speculating the introduction of a national strategic Bitcoin reserve.

The progressive step by Detroit signals a potential shift in how local governments across the U.S. approach digital asset integration.