costbas.rb is a Ruby script that reads QIF files from Quicken and produces a report showing share lots after each transaction and the cost basis for each stock or mutual fund sale transaction. It calculates the cost basis using two methods, FIFO and average cost basis, and cost basis figures are separated into short-term and long-term.

DISCLAIMER: This software is not intended as tax advice and the algorithms used by this software may not be accurate, or may not be applicable to or suitable for the individuals' specific circumstances or needs. The author assumes no obligation to inform any person of changes in the tax law or other factors that could affect information generated by the software. Consult a professional Tax Advisor for advice and guidance if necessary.

Use the following steps to export a QIF file from Quicken:

• Select File, File Export, QIF File in the menu.
• In the dialog box, select the account you wish to export.
• The default date range should already cover your entire account history, so don't change that.
• Under "Include in Export", select only "Transactions" and leave the rest unchecked.
• Click on OK.

Run the following command to generate a report to stdout:

ruby costbas.rb qdata.QIF

where qdata.QIF is the name of the QIF file you exported.