Is market value part of cost basis?

No. Cost basis records what you spent; market value is a separate estimate.

How do I allocate a card lot?

Use a consistent reasonable method, such as relative fair values at purchase, and document it.

Does the app provide tax advice?

No. Portfolio records can support organization but are not legal or tax advice.

Collection Management · By the Precision Grade AI Editorial Team · Reviewed 2026-10-27

How to Track Card Cost Basis Accurately

Record purchase price, tax, shipping, grading, supplies, marketplace fees, and allocation across lots.

The short answer

Card cost basis should include the purchase price and directly attributable acquisition costs, with lot costs allocated consistently. Keep receipts and separate later valuation changes from what you actually spent. Tax treatment depends on jurisdiction and circumstances.

Why this matters

Good collection decisions depend on accurate identification, condition notes, acquisition cost, comparable sales, and a record of what changed over time.

A practical process

Record transaction date, seller, card, and purchase price.
Add tax, buyer fees, and inbound shipping.
Allocate lot cost using a documented method.
Track grading and improvement costs separately.
Preserve receipts and sale records.

Mistakes to avoid

Replacing cost with estimated value
Ignoring fees
Assigning all lot cost to the best card
Using portfolio records as tax advice

Where Precision Grade AI fits

Precision Grade AI records purchase details, cost basis, sale information, and portfolio results in the vault, giving collectors one consistent ledger.

Decision guidance: Use the same allocation method over time and consult a qualified tax professional for filing or business decisions.

See grading and slabs Compare plans

Frequently asked questions

Is market value part of cost basis?: No. Cost basis records what you spent; market value is a separate estimate.
How do I allocate a card lot?: Use a consistent reasonable method, such as relative fair values at purchase, and document it.
Does the app provide tax advice?: No. Portfolio records can support organization but are not legal or tax advice.

Sources and further reading

Precision Grade AI on the App Store

Editorial standard: This guide uses the cited primary references and the Precision Grade AI workflow. App results are prescreening estimates; final physical condition, authenticity, and encapsulation decisions require expert review.