How to Import Stock Information Using a CSV File from Your Broker
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TaxAct® customers can enter multiple Form 1099-B Proceeds From Broker and Barter Exchange Transactions quickly and easily by importing a CSV (comma separated values) file. This feature is available in TaxAct Premier+ and above. If you want to enter the information manually, go to our Entering in Program - Form 1099-B FAQ.

In order to import transactions, you will need to obtain a spreadsheet file from your broker (or create one of your own) and save it on your computer. If you use Microsoft Excel or Open Office to open files, you must convert the spreadsheet file to CSV format, and then import that file into TaxAct.

To import a CSV file into your TaxAct return:

  1. From within your TaxAct return (Online or Desktop), click Federal (on smaller devices, click in the top left corner of your screen, then click Federal).
  2. Click the Investment Income dropdown, click the 1099-B CSV import.
  3. Click CSV Import, then click Choose File to browse your computer for the CSV file.
  4. Use the drop-downs to match the column headings from your file to the appropriate column headings allowed in the program (it is the responsibility of the taxpayer/preparer to make sure the CSV file columns match the appropriate fields in the TaxAct program. If these do not accurately match, the program may not calculate the investment sales correctly).
  5. Select any entries you want imported into your tax file (click the checkbox in the Import column heading to select all of the transactions).
  6. If everything is correct, click Import. If you need to make changes, click Previous.
  7. When you return to the CSV File Import screen, click Continue to review, modify, or delete any of the Form 1099-B data imported into your return.

Tips:

  • If you import more than one CSV file or brokerage statement, the transactions will be added to the list of Form 1099-Bs previously created (up to 2,000 total).
  • If you receive an error message while attempting to import your CSV file, try switching your browser to Chrome.
  • The only way to see the CSV Import is to have the screen on full view. The CSV import is not available on smaller screens (such as on mobile devices).
  • You should compare the CSV or Excel file you obtain from your broker with the information that was reported to you on Form 1099-B. All transactions reported on Form 1099-B need to be included in your CSV or Excel file. If there are transactions missing from your CSV or Excel file, you will need to manually add these transactions to your file before importing into TaxAct.


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