Understanding capital gains and losses is essential because their tax treatment depends on factors such as the type of asset, holding period. This chapter explains how to identify capital assets, calculate gain or loss, apply special rules, and correctly report transactions for tax purposes.
At the end of this lesson, you will know how to:
- Identify and classify capital and noncapital assets for tax purposes
- Determine original and adjusted basis for purchased, gifted, inherited, and converted property
- Apply holding period rules to distinguish short‑term and long‑term capital gains and losses
- Calculate net capital gains and losses, including annual limits and carryforward rules
- Report capital asset transactions accurately using Forms 8949, Schedule D, 1099‑B/1099‑S, and Form 6252
- Apply special capital gain rules for inherited property, gifts, installment sales, and recapture
Field of Study: Federal Tax Law 1 Hour
Course Level: Intermediate
Delivery Method: Self-Study
Expiration Date to earn CEs: July 30, 2027.

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