Stocks and Taxes: Here’s What You Need to Know

Tax season can get confusing when your assets are distributed in multiple different places. The taxes you pay on stocks you hold will depend on how your shares are structured and what you do with them. If you’re already an active or day trader, you may be considering the benefits of long-term stock investment.

Make sure as you go through your research that you’re educating yourself with the essential information you need to know when it comes to stock taxation!

When can I be taxed on stocks?

Capital Gains

The most important tax for stockholders to know about is the capital gains tax. Capital gains are defined as the profits you earn by selling a stock. If you sell a stock at a higher value than it was when you bought it, you will be taxed on the difference between the original purchase price and the sales price.

Dividends

Some shareholders receive payments of cash or stock from a public-listed company—referred to as dividends. Dividends are taxed, in most cases at your ordinary income rate, and must be reported unless otherwise stated. Some dividends can be taxed as capital gain and at capital gain tax rates (0%, 15%, or 20%).

When can I claim stocks as a tax deduction?

Contrary to the taxes imposed on capital gains, capital losses can be deducted from your taxable income for up to $3,000. Additionally, if you sell your stock at a loss, you can subtract the amount from your capital gains as well.

Another way to use stocks as a tax deduction is to donate them. This allows you to claim the full market value of the stock as a charitable donation, lowers your overall taxable income, and also prevents you from having to pay taxes on capital gains.

To enlist help planning your tax strategy as a home-based or business trader, contact Traders Accounting for a free consultation! Our services will maximize your tax benefits and help get your finances in optimal shape for exploring other investment opportunities!