Long-Term Capital Gains Tax Calculator

What Are Long-Term Capital Gains?

A long-term capital gain is the profit from selling an asset held more than one year. Unlike wages and short-term gains (taxed at ordinary rates up to 37%), long-term capital gains get preferential federal rates of 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your total taxable income and filing status. The rate is determined by where the gain "stacks" on top of your ordinary income, not the gain alone.

2026 LTCG Brackets by Filing Status

Single: 0% on taxable income up to $48,350 — 15% from $48,350 to $533,400 — 20% above $533,400. Married filing jointly: 0% up to $96,700 — 15% up to $600,050 — 20% above. Head of household: 0% up to $64,750 — 15% up to $566,700 — 20% above. Married filing separately: 0% up to $48,350 — 15% up to $300,000 — 20% above. These are 2026 IRS-projected numbers and apply to the federal rate only.

The 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax

On top of federal LTCG rates, the 3.8% NIIT applies to investment income (including capital gains, dividends, rental income, and interest) when your modified adjusted gross income exceeds $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly). NIIT is not a bracket — it is 3.8% on every dollar of investment income above the threshold. So a high earner in the 20% LTCG bracket effectively pays 23.8%.

LTCG Tax Strategies

Hold appreciated assets over one year to qualify for LTCG rates (short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income). Harvest losses in down years to offset gains dollar-for-dollar, carrying unused losses forward. Time large gains for low-income years (sabbatical, early retirement, business losses) to land in the 0% bracket. Donate appreciated stock to charity for a deduction plus zero capital gains. Step up basis on inherited assets — heirs generally pay LTCG only on appreciation after the death date.