Tax-Lot PnL Planner
Compare FIFO, LIFO and HIFO lot selection before a partial stock or crypto sale.
LOTS ARE IN PURCHASE ORDER, OLDEST FIRST. ESTIMATES EXCLUDE TAX RULES, FEES AND WASH SALES.
Tax-Lot PnL Planner calculation coverage
- 01
FIFO, LIFO and HIFO
- 02
Partial-lot selection
- 03
Realized basis estimate
Not tax advice. Lot rules, wash sales and reporting requirements vary by jurisdiction and broker.
About this tool
A tax-lot planner assigns units sold to specific purchase lots and estimates realized cost basis and gain. FIFO uses the oldest lots, LIFO the newest and HIFO the highest purchase prices first.
How it works
Selected lots supply cost basis until the sale quantity is filled. Estimated realized PnL equals sale proceeds minus the summed basis of selected units.
| Parameter | How it is used |
|---|---|
| Purchase lots | Stores units and unit cost in your entered order, oldest acquisition first. |
| Sale quantity | Determines how many units require lot assignment. |
| Sale price | Calculates estimated proceeds. |
| Selection method | Orders lots by FIFO, LIFO or HIFO. |
The same sale, different selected basis
Oldest lot: 10 units at $40. Newer lot: 10 at $60. Sell 10 units at $70, excluding costs.
Proceeds = $700. FIFO basis = $400 and gain = $300. HIFO basis = $600 and gain = $100.
HIFO produces a $100 modeled gain for this sale, compared with $300 under FIFO.
The remaining lots retain different bases. A lower modeled gain is not proof that a method is legally available or best overall.
How to use this tool
- Enter each available lot with quantity and unit cost, ordered from oldest acquisition to newest.
- Add the proposed sale quantity and price.
- Compare FIFO, LIFO and HIFO estimates, then confirm allowed identification rules with a tax professional or broker.
Frequently asked questions
What is HIFO?
Highest-in, first-out selects the highest-cost available units first, which may reduce the estimated realized gain in some situations.
Can I always choose any lot method?
No. Jurisdiction, asset type and broker procedures determine available methods and identification requirements.
Is the result tax advice?
No. It is an educational estimate. Confirm records and treatment with a qualified professional and the executing broker.