Long-Term Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Estimate US federal long-term capital gains tax using the 0/15/20% brackets, stacked on top of your ordinary income.
How it works
Gain = proceeds − basis · The gain stacks on ordinary income and is taxed at 0% up to the first breakpoint, 15% up to the second, and 20% above it
Long-term gains (assets held over a year) get preferential US federal rates of 0%, 15% or 20%, but the bracket depends on your total income: the gain is stacked on top of your ordinary taxable income, and each slice is taxed at the rate for the band it lands in. That is why the same gain can be partly tax-free and partly taxed at 15%. This estimate covers federal tax only — it ignores state tax and the 3.8% net investment income tax that can apply at higher incomes.
Worked example
A single filer with $60,000 of income sells for a $12,000 gain. The 0% band tops out at $47,025, already below their income, so the whole gain falls in the 15% band: tax is 12,000 × 15% = $1,800.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a gain long-term?
Holding the asset for more than one year before selling. Assets held a year or less are short-term and taxed at your ordinary income rates, which are usually higher than the long-term rates this tool uses.
Why is part of my gain taxed at 0%?
The 0% rate applies to gains that, stacked on your other income, still fall below the first breakpoint ($47,025 single / $94,050 married for 2024). Only the portion above it is taxed at 15%, and above the second breakpoint at 20%.
Does this include state tax?
No. Most states tax capital gains as ordinary income with no preferential rate, so your total bill can be higher. This estimate is federal-only and excludes the 3.8% net investment income tax.
Related calculators
Educational federal-only estimate using 2024 brackets. Not tax advice — consult a tax professional.