Personal Investments • Calculating the Loss for Tax Loss Harvesting

Because when I attempted to start the trade with Vanguard online, I got a pop-up that said I could choose a cost basis method, but "if you use a cost basis method other than average cost you'll need to maintain records for any shares purchased prior to January 1, 2012" I had originally selected average cost to minimize record-keeping and paperwork and that's why I wanted to continue with the same. I do see that what you are suggesting would solve the problem.

I understand not wanting to keep the records, but if you are going to sell much of the old lots anyway, I think would be worth it. I would sell all lots that have a loss and any lots that don't have a loss you can donate to a DAF and then be done with them. I refuse to use average cost in a taxable account.

Statistics: Posted by Russcars — Tue Dec 16, 2025 4:50 am — Replies 4 — Views 314