Why sign in to the Community?

  • Submit a question
  • Check your notifications
Sign in to the Community or Sign in to TurboTax and start working on your taxes
New Member
posted Jun 6, 2019 2:46:05 AM

What is my cost basis on a return of capital on foreign ADR stock where 1099-B shows acquired and distributed the same date in the amount of $0.31?

On my 1099-B form, it says 0.10 Banco Bradesco (Ticker BBD), a foreign ADR stock, and the date acquired and sold/disposed are the same, with proceeds of $0.31.  The cost basis is blank and TurboTax requires an adjustment.  From looking at the history of transactions for this holding in my brokerage account, I've saved the info for this date where it states "return of capital." So what is my cost basis? $0.31? Thanks. This is the first time I've encountered proceeds as a return of capital.

0 3 2275
1 Best answer
New Member
Jun 6, 2019 2:46:07 AM

Return of capital reduces your basis in the stock because it is a return of your investment (until your basis is reduced to zero, then it's capital gain).  So yes, your basis for the distribution is $0.31; your basis in BBD is then reduced by $0.31. Obviously this would be more meaningful if it was a larger distribution!

3 Replies
New Member
Jun 6, 2019 2:46:07 AM

Return of capital reduces your basis in the stock because it is a return of your investment (until your basis is reduced to zero, then it's capital gain).  So yes, your basis for the distribution is $0.31; your basis in BBD is then reduced by $0.31. Obviously this would be more meaningful if it was a larger distribution!

New Member
Jun 6, 2019 2:46:08 AM

I should have said "Your basis in your remaining BBD stock is reduced by .31." The Return of Capital distribution is not taxable income (until your basis goes to zero).  I'm clarifying this answer for anyone reading it who has received a large Return of Capital distribution.

New Member
Jun 6, 2019 2:46:09 AM

Thank you for clarifying and confirming the return of capital cost basis.