Under Exception 1 in the Form 8949 instructions, we can enter summary totals only, and can send a copy of the brokerage statement as an attachment to the return. This saves a LOT preparation time when there are many transactions and/or multiple brokers. The only requirement is that the brokerage statement contain the same info as Part I and Part II "in a similar format" and that we properly identify the brokerage statement with specified wording.
This year, I am seeing more and more brokerage statements which meet the "similar format" requirement, and the statements also have wording to indicate how to enter the summary info. So I'm wondering if it might be worthwhile to start a thread which lists those brokerage statements which appear to meet the requirements. As the deadline approaches, this shortcut can be a real time saver, and an agreed-upon list might help us as preparers feel better about using it. (If anyone believes one should not be on the list, that would also be helpful).
My list of brokerage statements with acceptable formats so far is:
1) American Enterprise Investment Services Inc
2) Merrill Lynch
3) Charles Schwab
4) Raymond James
5) Morgan Keegan Co (is now Raymond James)
6) Wells Fargo Advisors
This year, I am seeing more and more brokerage statements which meet the "similar format" requirement, and the statements also have wording to indicate how to enter the summary info. So I'm wondering if it might be worthwhile to start a thread which lists those brokerage statements which appear to meet the requirements. As the deadline approaches, this shortcut can be a real time saver, and an agreed-upon list might help us as preparers feel better about using it. (If anyone believes one should not be on the list, that would also be helpful).
My list of brokerage statements with acceptable formats so far is:
1) American Enterprise Investment Services Inc
2) Merrill Lynch
3) Charles Schwab
4) Raymond James
5) Morgan Keegan Co (is now Raymond James)
6) Wells Fargo Advisors