One of my stocks was sold because of a merger. I did not have the option of not selling. Can I spread the proceeds over 3 years?

[stcragg]

Stock was inherited in 1994. The original name was Cincinnati Bell with a cost per share of $17.250. Name was changed to Convergis Corp when stock split. 

[Zbucklyo]

No, any tax on capital gains is due in the year the gain occurred.  Where did you get the idea you could spread it out over three years?