Mexico’s 2026 Budget Adds Tax Withholding for Crowdfunding

The Mexican government has proposed new fiscal rules requiring crowdfunding platforms to withhold income tax (ISR) and value-added tax (IVA) on operations where they act as intermediaries, according to the 2026 Economic Package presented by President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration.

The measure would increase tax responsibilities for collective financing platforms regulated under the Fintech Law, which connect borrowers with investors. The National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV) currently lists 17 registered firms, including Play Business, Doopla, Yotepresto, Cien Ladrillos, Snowball, Fundry and Likideo.

Gerardo Obregón, president, Asociación de Plataformas de Fondeo Colectivo (AFICO), said the sector has sought dialogue with the Tax Administration Service (SAT) since the Fintech Law’s enactment in 2018. “Since we came out with the Fintech regulation, we have always approached the SAT voluntarily, trying to reach a mechanism to make tax effects transparent,” he said.

The proposal sets a 20% withholding on gross interest plus IVA. Obregón noted that while platforms are willing to comply, implementation poses challenges. AFICO has suggested lowering the rate to 5%–10% to reduce the impact on investors and borrowers.

The College of Public Accountants of Mexico said the measure is less about a heavier fiscal burden and more about oversight. “More than a burden, it is greater control and another obligation to present information,” said Salvador Rotter, a tax member of the organization.

Finance Minister Édgar Amador Zamora said the plan seeks to align fintech products with the banking sector. “Savers in fintech products do not have the retention that savers in the banking system have,” he said.

Juan Carlos Flores, CEO and founder, Doopla, warned that a 20% rate could discourage investors. “One of the advantages is that through crowdfunding, people access financing at more accessible rates than those offered by banks,” he said, stressing that 40% of Doopla investors reported making their first-ever investment on the platform.

AFICO and industry representatives said they plan to negotiate the retention rate with authorities, noting that while the changes may improve platforms’ operational and technological processes, the main impact will fall on consumers.