Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Estimate the federal and state tax owed on a stock sale, based on your cost basis, sale price, and holding period.
For informational purposes only — not tax advice. Uses simplified 2024 federal bracket thresholds and does not account for the Net Investment Income Tax, AMT, or state-specific rules. Consult a tax professional before filing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between short-term and long-term capital gains?
In the US, a gain is short-term if you held the asset for one year or less, and long-term if you held it for more than one year. Short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income at your regular federal bracket. Long-term gains get preferential rates — 0%, 15%, or 20% federally depending on taxable income — which is why holding period matters for tax planning.
Does this calculator account for state taxes?
Yes, but only as a flat rate you enter yourself — state capital gains treatment varies widely (some states tax it as ordinary income, some have no income tax at all, some have special exemptions), so a single dropdown could not represent every state accurately. Enter your state’s approximate marginal rate, or 0 if your state does not tax capital gains.
Is this exact enough to file my taxes?
No. This is a simplified estimate for planning purposes — it does not account for the Net Investment Income Tax, AMT, wash sale rules, cost basis adjustments, or state-specific rules. Consult a tax professional or the IRS instructions for Schedule D before filing.