How to Calculate Capital Gains Taxes

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Calculating capital gains taxes can be a daunting task, especially if you are unfamiliar with the process. Fortunately, there are some simple steps that you can take to ensure that you pay the correct amount of taxes on your capital gains.

The first step is to determine what type of capital gain you have. Capital gains can be either short-term or long-term depending on how long you held the asset before selling it. Short-term capital gains occur when an asset is sold within one year of purchase and long-term capital gains occur when an asset is held for more than one year before being sold.

Once you have determined the type of capital gain, you need to calculate your taxable income from the sale. To do this, subtract any costs associated with buying or selling the asset from its sale price. This includes broker fees, commissions, and other related expenses. The resulting number is your net gain or loss from the sale and should be reported on your tax return as such.

Next, determine what tax rate applies to your particular situation based on your total taxable income for the year and filing status (single/married/head of household). For most taxpayers in 2020, short-term capital gains are taxed at ordinary income rates while long-term capital gains are taxed at lower rates depending on their filing status and income level.

Lastly, calculate how much tax you owe by multiplying your net gain or loss by the applicable tax rate for that particular type of gain or loss (short-term vs long-term). Once this calculation has been completed, add any additional taxes due such as self employment taxes if applicable and submit payment along with your tax return to complete the process.

Calculating capital gains taxes may seem complicated but following these steps will help ensure that everything is done correctly so that you don’t end up owing more than necessary come April 15th.
 
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