The biggest hurdle that investors face is paying tax on the gains on their long-term investments. Yet the tax laws actually give heirs a huge tax break when they inherit shares of stock or other ...

People invest with the hope of earning a return over time. But what happens when you choose to sell? Cost basis is key to understanding your tax obligations and the true profit of your investments.

Chad Langager is a co-founder of Second Summit Ventures. He started as an intern at Investopedia.com, eventually leaving for the startup scene. Katrina Ávila Munichiello is an experienced editor, ...