Hi Jodn D: Boy, you asked the wrong guy. I wouldn't know the difference bewtween schedule "D" and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. I'm sure someone else can help you with this if you ask again.
>> Any suggestions re what software to use re prep. of Schedule D <<
When I was trading stocks heavely I used "gainskeeper"...
A few clicks of the mouse and I had a muliti page itemized schedule D showing all my trades (long and short) all ready to send to the IRS...
Here's a tip. Gainskeeper charges you a "yearly fee". I would make sure I would do the following years taxes a couple of days earlier than the prior year (hence you get two years for the price of one)...
I used Tradekeeper. Works great, free download - the writer asks for a donation ($25?). Compiles Schedule D and does wash sale calculations - also has the ability to compile different p/l reports. Can download here:
www.gainskeeper.com was just suggested by Etrade and I looked at it and think I will use it. It has many good suggestions in addition to the schedule D. They were offering a 30 day free trial.