How much of my capital losses can I claim as a tax deduction?

October 25, 2002

Subject:   losses
Date:   Sun, 13 Oct 2002
From:   Elaine

I lost 2400 in long term stocks this year. How much can I deduct from my taxable income in 2002 when I file with the IRS?

Answer

Date:   Wed, 16 Oct 2002

Hello Elaine,

Capital losses are deductible by individuals up to the amount of capital gains plus $3,000 ($1,500 for married persons filing a separate return). Legislation has been proposed to increase the net deduction to $8,250 ($4,125 for married filing separately) for 2002, but I don’t expect it to be enacted.

Good luck!

Mike Gray

For more answers to our readers’ questions and to learn about new tax developments relating to employee stock options, subscribe to our newsletter, Michael Gray, CPA’s Option Alert!

Comments are closed.