Tax Deferral (for the seller): One of the most compelling reasons to consider an installment sale is the ability to defer capital gains tax.
Situations where the installment method isn't permitted Installment method rules don't apply to sales that result in a loss. You can't use the installment method to report gain from the sale of inventory or stocks and securities traded on an established securities market.
An installment sale has the following primary disadvantages: The sold assets will not receive stepped-up basis in the event of your death.
Primary tabs. An installment contract is a single contract that is completed by a series of performances–such as payments, performances of a service, or delivery of goods–rather than being performed all at one time. Installment contracts can provide that installments are to be performed by either one or both parties.
To elect out, report the sale on Schedule D (540 or 540NR), California Capital Gain or Loss Adjustment; Schedule D (541, 565, 568), Capital Gain or Loss; Schedule D (100S), S Corporation Capital Gains and Losses and Built-In Gains; or Schedule D-1, Sales of Business Property, whichever applies.