Detroit authorities introduce Bitcoin and Ethereum payments for taxes and bills via PayPal
Detroit wants to reclaim its glory as a tech hub
The Detroit authorities are striving to restore the city’s reputation as a hub of technology and innovation.
Starting mid-2025, Detroit residents will be able to pay taxes and utility bills using Bitcoin and Ethereum through a platform managed by PayPal, reports Decrypt.
To mitigate cryptocurrency price volatility, payments made in crypto will be converted to U.S. dollars on the PayPal platform before reaching city accounts. The program, announced by Detroit authorities on Thursday, November 7, is part of a broader strategy to modernize municipal services and promote financial inclusion, particularly for residents with limited access to traditional banking services.
“We are excited to become one of the first major U.S. cities to explore civic applications of blockchain,” stated Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.
In addition to payment solutions, Detroit is inviting blockchain innovators to propose other applications to help address urban challenges.
Blockchain is gaining more popularity
“Blockchain technology has the potential to increase accessibility and efficiency,” said Justin Onvenu, Detroit’s Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunities, adding that Detroit aims to become a destination for forward-thinking entrepreneurs.
Detroit's actions follow similar initiatives in other states, including Colorado, Utah, and Louisiana, where certain government services can be paid for using cryptocurrency.
As we wrote, Michigan is not the only U.S. state using crypto assets to preserve and grow pension funds.
Wisconsin has invested a small portion of its funds in the BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT).
The Arizona State Senate is considering legislation to add digital assets to its pension system, and Florida is looking to include Bitcoin in theirs.
The Pennsylvania legislature recently proposed the “Bitcoin Rights” bill to clarify the state's stance on digital assets.
Wyoming and Nebraska have already passed laws to attract cryptocurrency mining and to establish regulatory frameworks for crypto banks.
