I realized a bottom line loss of ~$2k from trading securities in 2020. Should I ignore that and just file my W2 since I plan to take the standard deduction?

[Bsch4477]

Do not ignore the loss since when you report it, it will decrease your ordinary income and so decrease your tax liability. 

[bstein0525]

I thought that the loss would be reported as an itemized deduction... and since I am taking the standard deduction it would ne negligible. Am I mistaken? 

[Bsch4477]

Yes you are mistaken. A loss on a stock is not an itemized deduction. It decreases any capital gains and if there are no capital gains to decrease it then decreases your ordinary income up to $3,000. 

[VolvoGirl]

And the IRS won't know you had a loss if you don't report it.  They will see the whole sale amount as gross income.  

You should have a 1099B for sales.

You can enter a 1099B manually or try to import it.  If you import it be sure to check it over close and make sure the cost basis got imported and is right.  How to import your 1099

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/entering-importing/help/how-do-i-import-my-1099/00/26254

Enter a 1099B  under

Federal Taxes Tab or Personal (Home & Business)

Wages & Income

Then scroll down to Investment Income,

Then Stocks, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Other - click Start or Update