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March 16, 2025
Question

Adjust cost basis on 1099-b deducts brokerage fee?

  • March 16, 2025
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views

I purchased a CD in 2024 (let's say for X dollars).

On my 1099-B, it shows the cost basis as X+$20, with an adjusted cost basis of X.

It shows the selling price as X.

 

It seems to me that the $20 higher amount must have included the broker's fee. I should be able to include that in my cost basis, shouldn't I? My cost to purchase the security included the broker's fee. Why would the cost be adjusted downwards to the CD face value?

 

Investopedia has a very peculiar statement:
>> An adjusted cost basis that includes deductions to the value of an asset can be particularly beneficial to investors or business owners when the sale results in a loss.


That seems backwards to me. Our tax burden is more when we have a lower cost basis, right?

 

If I'm right, and want to correct the cost basis to reflect my broker's fee, will TurboTax handle this for me, in the Step-by-Step view? Or will I have to fill out Form 8949 manually?

1 reply

March 16, 2025

Yes, when entering your 1099-B check the box to indicate 'my cost basis is missing or incorrect' and you'll be able to enter the correct Cost Basis.

 

Here's more info on Form 1099-B.

 

@bobdrad