Capital Gains, Minimal Taxes provides the most complete explanation available of how to handle gains, losses, dividends and expenses from buying, holding and selling stocks, mutual funds and stock options. It covers all the material you’ll find on this web site on those subjects and much more.
2015 edition now available
This is the fifth edition of this book, updated to reflect changes in the law through December 15, 2014. Among other changes, it reflects tax rates that went into effect in 2013, the surtax on net investment income that also went into effect that year, broker reporting of basis (and its effect on return preparation), and a complete revision of the way basis is determined for mutual fund shares.
Who it’s for
This book starts with the most basic information about taxes, explaining such fundamentals as the difference between capital gains and ordinary income. Yet it also goes into more difficult areas where even tax professionals may need guidance, such as constructive sales and straddles. You’ll find this book useful whether you’re a new investor just learning the tax rules or a financial advisor or other professional needing a reference on the subject.
What it covers
Capital Gains, Minimal Taxes explains tax rules and strategies you need to know when buying, holding or selling stocks, mutual funds or options.
Part I: Laying the Foundation
Background information on investing, the structure of the income tax, tax brackets, and more.
Part II: Capital Gains and Losses
General rules for capital gains and losses, as well as some of the special rules, such as the wash sale rule.
Part III: Other Investment Income and Expense
Dividends from stocks and mutual funds; investment interest expense and other investment expenses.
Part IV: Capital Gains: Advanced Topics
If you get fancy with your trading you’ll need to know about short sales, section 1256 contracts, constructive sales and straddles.
Part V: Asset Transfers
Tax rules for gifts; custodial accounts for minors; charitable gifts of stock.
Part VI: Taxation of Traders
Determining whether you qualify as a trader; understanding the tax consequences of trader status.
Part VII: Other Taxes
Alternative minimum tax; net investment income tax.
Part VIII: Many Happy Returns
Reporting sales of stock; estimated tax payments; special rules for children.
Part IX: Planning for Lower Taxes
Tax planning strategies for different types of investors.
About this edition
The 2019 edition is the sixth edition of this book. It reflects legal authorities as of December 2018.
Capital Gains, Minimal Taxes: The essential guide for investors and traders
by Kaye A. Thomas
Fairmark Press Inc.
2019 edition published December 2018
Trade paperback, 344 pages
ISBN 978-1-938797-10-1
$23.95