Capital Gains Tax Calculator 2026
Calculate tax on stocks, crypto, real estate, and other investments. See short-term and long-term rates.
📈 Calculate Capital Gains Tax
2026 Capital Gains Tax Rates
| Rate | Single Filer | Married Filing Jointly |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | Up to ,025 | Up to ,050 |
| 15% | ,026 – ,900 | ,051 – ,750 |
| 20% | Over ,900 | Over ,750 |
These rates apply to long-term capital gains (assets held over 1 year). Short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income at your marginal tax rate.
💡 Tax-Loss Harvesting
You can offset capital gains by selling losing investments. Up to ,000 of net capital losses can be deducted against ordinary income per year. Unused losses carry forward indefinitely.
Long-Term vs Short-Term Capital Gains
- Long-term gains (held over 1 year) are taxed at preferential rates of 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your income level.
- Short-term gains (held under 1 year) are taxed as ordinary income, which could be as high as 37%.
- Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) adds 3.8% on investment income for individuals earning over ,000 (,000 married).
- Collectibles (art, coins, antiques) are taxed at a maximum rate of 28%, regardless of holding period.
❓ Capital Gains FAQ
Your cost basis is typically what you paid for the asset, including broker commissions and fees. For inherited assets, your basis is usually the fair market value at the date of the decedent's death (a "step-up" in basis). For gifts, you generally use the donor's original cost basis.
Yes. If you sell your primary residence, you can exclude up to ,000 of capital gains (,000 for married couples) if you've lived in the home for at least 2 of the last 5 years. This is one of the best tax benefits available to homeowners.
Capital gains tax is owed for the tax year in which you sell the asset. If you have significant gains, you may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties. The IRS expects you to pay at least 90% of your current year tax or 100% of your prior year tax throughout the year.