Basis (or cost basis), as used in United States tax law, is the original cost of property, adjusted for factors such as depreciation. When property is sold, the taxpayer pays/(saves) taxes on a capital gain/(loss) that equals the amount realized on the sale minus the sold property`s basis. Cost basis is needed because tax is due based on the gain.... Found on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cost_basis
The original price of an asset, used in determining capital gains. It usually refers to the purchase price of a stock, bond or other security. Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/visitor-contributions.php
The cost price of an asset used to establish capital gains tax... <a target=_blank href='http://www.finance-glossary.com/terms/cost-basis.htm?id=318&ginPtrCode=00000&PopupMode=false' title='Read full definition of cost basis'>more</a>
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