As far as I know, you still need to call to cover your shorts. HOwever, there is no rush to do this, as you have until they settle.
I have even called to cover a short once, then changed my mind the next day, and left the position long. As long as they do not settle, I was told.
You could open an account in your home town as it might be easier if you have to drop off anything like a check you want posted immediatly or such.
I have only been to my local branch once in 3 years.
If you call your local branch, usually they will answer the phone unless they are busy then it will roll over to their national center--same service
That cell phone question is best left up to an accountant, as I am not, however, my take is basically no.
As I recall, unless, you can only deduct, the portion of your expenses that are over 2% of your AGI. (I think)
Another way is to from a LLC or the like and do all your trading in that entity, then, perhaps, your trading expenses could be covered.
But, I'm sure it would be cheaper to install another voice line or data line than to be using a cell phone to make 800# calls. And yes, all of Waterhouse's numbers are toll free.
Hope this helps |
