Stocks & Options Traders
Tax Help for Active Stock & Options Traders
Stocks, ETFs and options on individual stocks are reported on Form 8949 and Schedule D. Wash sales across accounts and the TTS question drive most of the complexity.
Start Basic IntakeHow it's generally taxed
Capital gains by default
Short-term gains are taxed at ordinary rates; net capital losses beyond $3,000 a year carry forward.
Wash sales
Losses can be disallowed when you repurchase substantially identical securities within 30 days, across all your accounts, including IRAs.
TTS and Section 475(f)
Qualifying traders can deduct business expenses and may elect mark-to-market, which converts gains and losses to ordinary and removes wash sale limits.
General information only. Treatment depends on your facts and agreements.
What we handle
- Form 8949 and Schedule D reconciliation
- Cross-broker wash sale review
- Trader Tax Status qualification review
- Section 475(f) election timing and statement
- Options assignment and exercise basis review
- Quarterly estimated tax planning
Forms involved
- Form 1099-B
- Form 8949
- Schedule D
- Form 4797 (with 475 election)
Common mistakes
- Wash sales triggered between brokers or with an IRA
- Missing the Section 475(f) election deadline
- Assuming TTS creates earned income for retirement contributions
Where most stocks & options traders start
Many start with our Professional plan. We'll confirm the right fit after your intake.
Compare plansGuides for stocks & options traders
Compliance
Wash Sale Rules for Traders: Multi-Broker Aggregation and Disallowances
Trader Tax Status
Do You Qualify for Trader Tax Status? The Complete 2026 Guide
Trader Tax Status
Mark-to-Market Election (Section 475): Should You Elect MTM for Trading?
Day Trading
Day Trading Taxes: How Day Traders Are Taxed (Complete Guide)