topic 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? in Investors & landlords

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?

axetaxmax — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:46:05 GMT

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.

Return of capital reduces your basis in the stock because...

TaxLady — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:46:07 GMT

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!

I should have said "Your basis in your remaining BBD stoc...

TaxLady — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:46:08 GMT

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.

Thank you for clarifying and confirming the return of cap...

axetaxmax — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:46:09 GMT

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