Tax-Loss Harvesting Calculator
Estimate the tax saved by selling investments at a loss to offset capital gains and up to $3,000 of ordinary income a year (US rules).
For information and education only — not financial advice. Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter; check important decisions with a qualified professional.
How to use
- 1Enter the loss you'd realize and your realized capital gains this year.
- 2Enter your capital gains tax rate and ordinary income tax rate.
How it's calculated
Losses first offset gains (saving gains × capital gains rate). Up to $3,000 of any remaining loss offsets ordinary income; the rest carries forward to future years.
Frequently asked questions
Do short- and long-term losses differ?
Losses first offset gains of the same type, then the other type. Short-term gains are taxed at higher ordinary rates, so offsetting them saves more.
What about the wash sale rule?
If you buy the same or a substantially identical security within 30 days, the loss is disallowed for now. Buy a similar but not identical fund instead.
Is harvesting always worth it?
It lowers your cost basis, so you may pay more tax later — it's a deferral, but the time value and potential lower future rates can still make it worthwhile.