Should I sell now or wait to reduce capital gains tax?
Compare after-tax proceeds if you sell now versus waiting for long-term capital gains rates. Enter cost basis, sale price, income, and holding period to estimate short-term vs long-term tax and the break-even timing for a lower rate.
How this calculation works
- Estimates short-term tax using ordinary income rates.
- Estimates long-term tax using capital gains brackets.
- Compares after-tax proceeds and timing tradeoffs.
Common mistakes and caveats
- Market price changes can outweigh tax considerations.
- State taxes are not included in this estimate.
FAQ
When do gains become long-term?
Gains are long-term when the asset is held for more than one year.
Last updated & sources
Last updated January 26, 2026.
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