The Solana blockchain is renowned for its speed and low transaction costs, but many are unaware that it also supports tokens with built-in tax mechanisms. Unlike the standard SPL tokens commonly created on platforms like Pump, the Token-2022 standard introduces advanced features, including the ability to impose transfer and trade fees. This guide will explain what Token-2022 is and provide a step-by-step tutorial on how to create your own taxable token on the Solana network.
What Is Token-2022?
Token-2022 is an upgraded version of the original SPL token standard on the Solana blockchain. It introduces several powerful new functionalities, making it a more versatile option for developers and projects. While standard SPL tokens are considered the "basic" version, Token-2022 acts as an enhanced iteration. Key features include support for token taxes, freezing capabilities, and more, which is why it's often referred to as a taxable token standard.
How Does Token-2022 Taxation Work?
The taxation mechanism for Token-2022 tokens operates primarily on transfers and trades. Once a tax rate is set, every transfer or trade involving the token incurs a fee, denominated in the token itself. It's important to note that these fees are not distributed instantly. Instead, they accumulate in a dedicated account and must be manually claimed by a designated "tax claim address."
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Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Token-2022 Taxable Token
Step 1: Connect Your Wallet
Begin by navigating to a compatible token creation tool. Click the "Connect Wallet" button, typically located in the top-right corner. Most tools will automatically detect installed wallets like Phantom. If you use OKX or TokenPocket wallets, they are also supported—simply select Phantom, and it will recognize other installed wallet extensions.
Step 2: Fill in Required Token Parameters
This step involves defining the core attributes of your token. Accuracy is crucial here:
- Token Name: The full name of your token (e.g., "Solana," "Ethereum"). Supports English and Chinese characters.
- Token Symbol: The abbreviated symbol (e.g., "SOL," "ETH"). Also supports English and Chinese.
- Decimals: The smallest unit of the token, defaulting to 9. This affects the maximum supply.
- Total Supply: The maximum number of tokens minted. With decimals set to 9, the supply cannot exceed 10 billion.
- Tax Rate: The percentage fee applied to transfers and trades, ranging from 0 to 100.
- Maximum Tax: The cap on fees per transaction. For example, with a 10% tax rate and a max tax of 50, a transfer of 1,000 tokens would only incur a 50-token fee.
- Authority Wallet Address: The address permitted to perform actions like minting additional tokens or freezing accounts.
- Tax Claim Wallet Address: The address designated to collect accumulated fees.
- Logo: An image file for the token icon, recommended size 256x256 pixels and under 1MB.
Step 3: Provide Optional Token Details
These details may be displayed on platforms that list your token:
- Website: The official project website.
- Telegram Group: A link to the project's Telegram community.
- Twitter (X) Link: The official Twitter handle.
- Discord Link: An invite to the project's Discord server.
- Description: A brief summary, limited to 200 characters.
- Tags: Up to five keywords relevant to the token.
Step 4: Create the Token
After verifying all information, click the "Create" button. Your wallet will prompt you to confirm and pay the transaction fee. Creation is confirmed once the fee is deducted—if no fee is charged, the token was not created. Upon success, you'll receive a contract address. Note that wallet displays like Phantom may update slowly, sometimes showing tokens as "unknown" until synchronized.
Step 5: Test the Tax Functionality
To verify the tax rate, initiate a transfer. Your wallet should display the applicable fee. For instance, transferring 3,000 tokens with a 10% tax would show a 300-token deduction. Fees can be claimed later through a dedicated dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are taxes applied—during transfers or trades?
Taxes are applied to both transfers and trades automatically under the Token-2022 standard. Unlike some networks, Solana does not allow scenario-specific exemptions.
Can taxes be paid in USDT or SOL instead of the native token?
No. The Token-2022 standard only supports fee payments in the native token you create.
Are there whitelisted addresses exempt from taxes?
Solana's Token-2022 does not include whitelisting functionality. All addresses, including the authority address, incur fees on transfers and trades.
Can the tax rate be modified after token creation?
Technically, yes, but this feature may not be supported by all creation tools. Future updates are expected to enable rate adjustments.
How do I use or relinquish authority permissions?
Authority management can typically be handled through specialized tools by entering the token contract address.
Who pays the tax—the sender or the receiver?
The sender bears the tax burden. For example, if sending 1,000 tokens with a 10% tax, the recipient receives 900 tokens.