Originally Posted by
Often1
I would justs stick to the card issuer's definition. As you can see with Chase, it is broader than the IRS definition in many respects.
I cannot imagine any situation in which valuation, as opposed to proceeds, counts. Would you reduce your income in a bad year if the value dropped?
Chase does not really define income, it just says "what you reasonably expect to earn" and lists some examples of sources.
Can I reasonably expect to earn the IRS RMD amount from my portfolio, even if I'm not actually withdrawing?
If I sell a stock for $100 and it has a basis of $75, is my income $25 or $100? Different sources give different answers. Which complies with Chase's definition?
The wikipedia article I linked lists increases in valuation as income. I'll admit this is a stretch.