How to handle a 'return of capital' adjustment on ESPP stock

[carmenb16]

I sold ESPP stock in 2019 that had a 'return of capital' adjustment several years ago. The 1099-B has the cost basis adjusted for the 'return of capital' and I understand that, but when TurboTax calculates the employee compensation portion from the sale it uses the unadjusted cost basis for the calculation and the adjusted cost basis is used to calculate the capital gains. this make the net capital gain different on the schedule D than it is on the Employer Stock Transaction Worksheet. Is this OK?

[KathrynG3]

It depends. I suggest you review what you paid for the ESPP stock less  any amount already reported, like the return of capital adjustment.

You will need

• Form 3922 from your employer,
• Form 1099-B and
• Form W-2

to determine the appropriate cost basis for your transaction, which may require additional details in TurboTax to accurately report the transaction.

For more resources, see below:

• Check out this article in the Community with a reply from TurboTax Expert RobertG: Adjusting ESPP Basis
• Do I need to enter ESPP transactions?

[Edited 2/28/2020 | 11:52 AM PST]

@carmenb16