Answer:
a) the maximum amount that Bill and Laura will be able to deduct during the current year is $3,000. Their remaining loss = $19,000 - $3,000 = $16,000. The remaining $16,000 loss must be carried forward and deducted in subsequent years, or year, depending on their future capital gains. Total tax saved during this year = $3,000 x 39.6% = $1,188.
b) additional tax liability = $15,000 x 20% = $3,000
c) if they sell both, then their long term capital gains = $15,000 - $19,000 = -$4,000. They can deduct $3,000 during the current year, and the remaining $1,000 loss can be deducted in subsequent years. Total tax saved during this year = $3,000 x 39.6% = $1,188.