Question

One broker has reported section 1256 contracts on a 1099-B for SPY options transactions and another has not. How do I proceed?

Forum|Forum|2 years ago
March 2, 2024
1 reply
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E*trade has decided to use a broader definition for Section 1256 contracts to include any options trade on broad index ETFs presumable to get their clients a bit of a tax break (60% long term capital gain no matter how long they are held). I don't think this classification is appropriate for my situation. Do I enter these in my 8849 as normal short term transactions at ignore what it says on the 1099 or just go with the flow?

TurboTax Online

Rick19744

A couple of thoughts:

The facts are too limited for anyone to provide much guidance
I would call E*trade and discuss this with them to understand how they are determining this position
Bullet number 2 will help provide you with some understanding as to your comfort on filing position

*A reminder that posts in a forum such as this do not constitute tax advice.Also keep in mind the date of replies, as tax law changes.

A

aataxesAuthor

Thanks for the advice. I did contact trade, they said they have chosen to use a broad interpretation of the rule by considering SPY an index. I sold SPY covered calls and cash covered puts. No straddles or strangles, just options on an equity ETF.

So they also added that they have no intention of changing their minds unless the IRS makes them. My return as it stands has some transactions that are box A, and some section 1256 contracts. Just doesn't seem right to me.