Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Estimate federal tax on your stock gains.
Long-term gains (assets held over a year) are taxed federally at 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your taxable income; short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income. This estimate covers federal tax only — state taxes and the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax may also apply. Not tax advice.
About this calculator
How long you hold an investment drives how it's taxed. Gains on assets held more than a year are 'long-term' and taxed federally at 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your taxable income. Gains on assets held a year or less are 'short-term' and taxed at your ordinary income tax rate — often much higher. This calculator estimates the federal tax due either way.
Holding for over a year to qualify for long-term rates is one of the simplest ways to cut the tax on winning positions.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between long and short-term?
Long-term (held over one year) gets preferential federal rates of 0/15/20%. Short-term (one year or less) is taxed as ordinary income, up to 37%.
Does this include state tax?
No. This estimates federal tax only. Many states tax capital gains too, and high earners may owe an extra 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax.
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These calculators are for general information and planning only. They use the assumptions you enter and do not constitute financial, tax, or investment advice. Tax figures are simplified estimates for the stated tax year. Returns are not guaranteed; verify figures independently before making decisions.