These two tax breaks, along with more than 4 dozen more, expired at the end of 2013. To date, they have not been extended, but later this year or even in 2015 Congress could reinstate them retroactively to the start of 2014. Look for news about “extender legislation” in the media and follow JKLasser.com for updates.
The difference between amount realized and adjusted basis on the sale or exchange of capital assets. Long-term capital gains are taxed favorably. Capital losses are deducted first against capital gains, and then again up to $3,000 of other income.