Sale of stock received as a bonus

[kgw3]

I received shares of stock for the company I worked for in 2010.  I sold the shares in 2018 at a substantially lower price than they were worth when they were awarded to me.  I received a 1099-B showing the proceeds from the sale in 2018, but the cost basis is shown as "unknown".  Turbotax is asking for the cost basis.  What should I show?  The shares were worth $5,890.00 when awarded.  I received $1,434.26 when I sold them.

[MichaelL1 · Accepted solution]

When you got the shares of stock as  a bonus in 2010, the value of the shares should have been added to your W-2 income.

If that amount added to your income was $5,890 you use that amount as your cost basis, and use 2010 date as date acquired.  If it is a different amount, enter that amount.

Then enter the actual sales price and date on the 1099B.

You will have long term capital loss on your tax return.

[kgw3]

Very helpful.  Thanks