Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Estimate the federal tax owed on a capital gain from selling stocks, property, or other assets.
Enter your numbers and select Calculate to see results.
About This Calculator
This calculator estimates federal tax on a capital gain. Long-term gains (assets held over a year) use preferential 0%/15%/20% rates that stack on top of your other taxable income. Short-term gains (held one year or less) are taxed as ordinary income at your regular bracket rates. High earners may also owe the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT).
How This Is Calculated
Long-term gains stack on ordinary income and are taxed at 0%/15%/20% depending on which bracket the gain falls into.
- 0% bracket
- — Taxable income up to $49,450 (single) / $98,900 (MFJ) for 2026
- 15% bracket
- — Up to $545,500 (single) / $613,700 (MFJ)
- 20% bracket
- — Above those thresholds
With $70,000 in other income and a $20,000 long-term gain (single filer), the gain falls entirely in the 15% bracket, for about $3,000 in federal tax.
Assumptions
- 2026 LTCG thresholds: 0% to $49,450 single / $98,900 MFJ; 15% to $545,500 / $613,700; 20% above (IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32).
- NIIT (3.8%) applies above $200,000 MAGI (single) / $250,000 MAGI (MFJ) — this calculator uses a simplified MAGI estimate.
- Does not include state capital gains tax.
- Assumes the gain is from a standard capital asset, not subject to special rates (e.g., collectibles at 28%, or Section 1250 real estate depreciation recapture).
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated January 15, 2026. Results are estimates for informational purposes only — read our disclaimer.