Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Estimate tax on short-term vs long-term capital gains for the 2024 tax year.
Held >1 year — preferential rates
Held ≤1 year — taxed as ordinary income
Total Capital Gains Tax
$4,500
Effective Rate: 15.0%
Long-Term Tax
$4,500
15.0%
Short-Term Tax
$0
0%
NIIT (3.8%)
$0
above $200K MAGI
| Category | Amount | Tax | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-Term Capital Gains | $30,000 | $4,500 | 15.0% |
| Short-Term Capital Gains | $0 | $0 | — |
| Total Tax on Gains | $30,000 | $4,500 | 15.0% |
How This Is Calculated
This calculator estimates your capital gains tax by applying the appropriate tax rates based on how long you held the asset and your total taxable income.
Long-term capital gains (assets held >1 year) use preferential rates: 0% on gains that keep total taxable income below $47,025 (single) / $94,050 (married jointly), 15% up to $518,900 / $583,750, and 20% above those thresholds (2024 brackets).
Short-term capital gains (assets held ≤1 year) are taxed as ordinary income using the standard federal tax brackets (10%–37%). The calculator computes the incremental tax by comparing your tax with and without the short-term gains.
Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT): An additional 3.8% applies to investment income (including capital gains) when your modified adjusted gross income exceeds $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly). This calculator factors in NIIT automatically.
Based on IRS 2024 tax brackets. LTCG: 0%/15%/20% preferential rates. NIIT: 3.8% on investment income above $200K (single) / $250K (MFJ). State taxes not included in this estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between short-term and long-term capital gains?
Short-term capital gains apply to assets held one year or less and are taxed as ordinary income at your regular tax rate (10%-37%). Long-term capital gains apply to assets held more than one year and receive preferential rates of 0%, 15%, or 20%, depending on your taxable income.
How does the Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) work?
The NIIT is an additional 3.8% tax on net investment income (including capital gains) for individuals with modified adjusted gross income above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly). It applies to the lesser of your net investment income or the amount your MAGI exceeds the threshold.
What are the 2024 long-term capital gains tax brackets?
For 2024, the 0% rate applies to taxable income up to $47,025 (single) or $94,050 (married filing jointly). The 15% rate applies up to $518,900 (single) or $583,750 (married filing jointly). The 20% rate applies above those thresholds.
How can I reduce capital gains taxes?
Common strategies include: holding assets for more than one year to qualify for long-term rates, tax-loss harvesting to offset gains, contributing to tax-advantaged accounts, and timing sales across tax years.
Related Calculators
⚠️ Estimates only. Actual capital gains tax depends on your full tax situation. State taxes not included. Consult a tax professional.