Capital Gains Tax Calculator (2026)

Classify short vs. long-term and estimate the 2026 federal capital-gains tax owed.

How it works

Long-term (held over 1 year) rates for 2026 are 0/15/20% based on your total income and filing status. Short-term gains are taxed at your ordinary marginal rate.

Frequently asked questions

Are these amounts an exact tax bill?

No. They use verified 2026 IRS/SSA figures but ignore credits, phase-outs and AMT. Use tax software or a CPA to file.

Marginal vs effective rate?

Marginal is the rate on your next dollar. Effective is total tax ÷ taxable income — always lower because earlier brackets fill first.

Standard or itemized?

Take whichever is larger. 2026 standard deduction: Single $16,100 · MFJ $32,200 · HoH $24,150 · MFS $16,100.

How is state tax handled?

Eight states impose no income tax. The rest are approximated at their top rate — see your state's brackets for a precise figure.

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