In-depth guides and resources to help you make the most of the Capital Gains Tax Calculator and master the underlying financial concepts.
Open Capital Gains Tax CalculatorCapital gains taxes are one of the most frequently misunderstood areas of the U.S. tax code, with planning opportunities that can save thousands annually. The key distinction is holding period: assets held more than one year qualify for long-term capital gains rates (0%, 15%, or 20% in 2026), while assets sold within 12 months are taxed as ordinary income — potentially at rates up to 37%. For a married couple earning $90,000 in capital gains, the difference between long-term and short-term treatment is roughly $13,500 in taxes.
All 2026 capital gains thresholds are from IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32. The 0% long-term rate applies to taxable income up to $98,900 (married filing jointly) and $49,450 (single); the 15% rate applies up to $613,700 (MFJ) and $545,500 (single); above those thresholds the 20% rate applies. The 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) applies when MAGI exceeds $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (MFJ). The guides cover tax-loss harvesting, the wash-sale rule, qualified opportunity zone investments, and cost basis methods (FIFO, specific identification, average cost).
Understand 2026 short-term and long-term capital gains tax rates. Learn tax-loss harvesting, the NIIT surtax, primary residence exclusion, and other strategies to reduce capital gains tax.
Complete crypto tax guide covering reporting requirements, calculation methods, DeFi taxes, staking income, and legal strategies to minimize crypto tax in 2026.