@maglib Okay, I think I understand what you're saying to do, then. However, I'm confused why you said to make the cost basis the same as the proceeds. When I click on "more information" in the cost basis section for this, it says, "The cost basis for NQSO is the actual price you paid per share times the number of shares."
It also gives this example:
"Here’s an example:
You bought 1,000 shares in Company, Inc for $10,000 at $10 per share. So the cost basis is $10,000. This year, the value rose to $15 per share and you sold.
sold amount - cost basis = taxable amount
$15,000 - $10,000 = $5,000"
So my question is - based on this, doesn't that mean my cost basis is NOT the same as the proceeds? It is the amount I "bought" the shares for, as it describes here?
Thank you for your patience with me trying to understand and learn, and sorry for any confusion.
Edit to add - The 20-30% tax increase you mentioned matches the increase I saw when I input all of this in this way.
