On my 1099-B, the "Date Acquired" and the "Cost or Other Basis" is wrong. Can I change this or does it need to match the 1099-B? It's showing a loss when that is wrong.

[cals]

Fidelity put the date acquired as the date I transferred the stocks to them (1/7/16), but I had actually had since 10/6/94.  With Fidelity using the wrong date acquired and calculating the wrong cost basis, they are reporting a loss to the IRS when it is actually a gain.  I want to make sure I'm putting the correct information in there, but wondering if I need to contact Fidelity so that they can change it on their end too since they reported this to the IRS.  Will I be flagged by the IRS if my information does not match the form, if I change it?

[ToddL99]

Enter the information you know to be correct, not what was reported by Fidelity (if it was wrong). 

This is very common and should not create any issue with the IRS. They are primarily concerned that the "Proceeds from Sale" amount is reported accurately.

[Rick19744]

A couple of comments:

• Doubtful that Fidelity is going to change anything so I wouldn't get frustrated trying to call them and asking them to send you a corrected form.
• The date issue is not really an issue as either date provides a long-term gain or loss.  Just use what is on the 1099-B to avoid any issues.
• You will be able to adjust the cost basis when entering in TT.  Make sure you follow the instructions as the software will ask if you need to make any adjustments.
• See the attached instructions to form 8949 and in particular page 8 for the appropriate code that you will need to understand.
• https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i8949.pdf

Taxpayers have adjustments all the time on this form.  We aren't able to predict if this will cause any issue, but the key is you need to be able to provide proof of the correct basis if questioned.  If you have that, then there will not be any issues.

[fanfare]

There's no reason not to correct the Date Acquired while you are there correcting the basis.