chart_increasing Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Estimate taxes on your investment gains. Understand short-term vs long-term capital gains rates and plan your investment exit strategy to minimize taxes.
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Frequently Asked Questions - Capital Gains Tax Calculator
What is the difference between short-term and long-term capital gains?
Short-term gains (assets held one year or less) are taxed at your ordinary income tax rate, which can be as high as 37%. Long-term gains (held over one year) receive preferential rates of 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your income level.
What is the net investment income tax (NIIT)?
High-income taxpayers may owe an additional 3.8% NIIT on investment income including capital gains. This applies to individuals with modified adjusted gross income above $200,000 ($250,000 for married filing jointly).
Can I offset capital gains with capital losses?
Yes, through tax-loss harvesting. You can use capital losses to offset capital gains dollar for dollar. If losses exceed gains, you can deduct up to $3,000 against ordinary income ($1,500 if married filing separately), with excess losses carried forward.
Do I pay capital gains tax on my primary residence?
Most homeowners qualify for the Section 121 exclusion: up to $250,000 of gain ($500,000 for married couples) is tax-free if you owned and lived in the home for at least two of the five years before the sale.
How can I minimize capital gains taxes on investments?
Hold investments longer than one year for lower long-term rates, use tax-loss harvesting, donate appreciated shares to charity (avoid capital gains and get a deduction), invest through tax-advantaged accounts (IRA, 401k), and consider opportunity zone investments.
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