You enter the purchase price (cost basis), sale price (proceeds), holding period, and filing status. The tool subtracts cost basis from proceeds to get the capital gain, applies the appropriate federal tax rate based on holding period and filing status, and returns the estimated tax and net profit. It uses approximate 2026 long-term brackets and a flat 24% placeholder for short-term gains. The 3.8% NIIT surtax, state taxes, and basis adjustments are not modeled.
If you held the asset for more than one year (at least one year and one day), the gain is long-term and qualifies for lower rates. Anything held one year or less is short-term and taxed at your ordinary income rate.
Short-term gains are taxed at your ordinary income rate, which depends on your total taxable income. This calculator uses 24% as a mid-range placeholder — your actual rate could be higher or lower depending on your bracket.
High earners (above $200,000 single / $250,000 married) may owe an additional 3.8% NIIT on investment income. This calculator does not include it — add 3.8% to the shown rate if you're above those thresholds.
Yes. Capital losses offset capital gains dollar for dollar. If losses exceed gains, you can deduct up to $3,000 of net losses against ordinary income per year, carrying the rest forward to future years.
No. Most states tax capital gains as ordinary income. California, for example, can add 9–13% on top. Check your state's rules and add that to the federal estimate shown here.
Estimate only. Results reflect your inputs and standard formulas — they are not financial, tax, legal, health, or investment advice. Verify important decisions with a qualified professional.