Schedule D is not used when you have capital gain distributions (Form 1099-DIV box 2a) and no investment sales reported on Form 1099-B. Not using Schedule D does not mean that the capital gain distribution is being treated as short-term. Schedule D is not needed to calculate the tax at the rate for long-term capital gains. The tax is calculated on the Qualified Dividends and Capital Gain Tax Worksheet, and the tax on the capital gain distribution is calculated at the rate for long-term capital gains.
