Things to Consider for Your 2015 Capital Gains Tax
There are all kinds of investors in the world. Some are looking to make a quick buck by buying and then quickly selling stocks as soon as they increase in value. Other investors buy stocks with an eye toward the future, which means they are in it for the long haul.
In any case, anyone who invests wants to be successful at it. It’s a great feeling to buy stock in a company and see that stock increase in value. However, at some point if you plan on selling that stock and cashing in or your gains, you will have to give a portion of those gains to the taxman. What percentage you will owe will depend on the size of your gain and how long you have owned the stock.
The government wants investors to hold onto their stocks longer. To encourage this they have a lower tax percentage on stocks held longer than a year. Whether you’re a quick turnaround trader or a long-term investor here’s what you should be aware of in 2015 for your capital gains taxes.
First, generally all you need to know to determine your capital gains is the difference between what you paid for the stock and how much you sold it for. When you know that amount then you can calculate the tax. Your tax rate will depend on which bracket you’re in. There are three that apply:
- If your ordinary income puts you in the 10-15 percent tax bracket, then your long-term capital gains rate is 0 percent.
- If your ordinary income falls in one of the 25, 28, 33, or 35 percent tax brackets then your long-term capital gains rate is 15 percent.
- If your ordinary income is in the 39.6% tax bracket, then your long-term capital gains rate is 20%.
There are a few other caveats to remember. For high-income earners, there is an additional 3.8 percent surtax on net investment income. Also, you only pay taxes on the net of your capital gains, which can make a big difference if you sell more than one stock in a year. If you want to learn more about capital gains taxes then please contact GROCO for more answers. Click here or call us at 1-877-CPA-2006.
Simple Steps to Building a Culture Of Direct Communication
Simple Steps to Building a Culture Of Direct Communication How’s the communication culture where you work? Is there open and direct communication? Do employees feel like they can speak with their bosses freely? Are supervisors easily accessible and willing to listen? Or, does it feel like you never know exactly what is going on, or…
How to Take Your Small Business to the Next Level
How to Take Your Small Business to the Next Level Are you looking for ways to give your small business a boost? Do you want your small business to shed its “small” description? Owning and running a small business has several challenges. In many cases, you have to wear multiple hats and do most of…
Are You Prepared to Avoid the AMT Under the New Tax Law?
Are You Prepared to Avoid the AMT Under the New Tax Law? The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) changed a lot of things. But unfortunately, it didn’t eliminate the dreaded Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT). The TCJA did change some of the AMT rules and it reduced the odds that you will qualify for the…
Ready for Taxes After Marriage? Here’s What You Need to Know
Ready for Taxes After Marriage? Here’s What You Need to Know The 2018 tax season is officially over. Most Americans are happy to have their tax returns in the rearview mirror. After all, nobody really enjoys doing taxes. Why is that? For the most part, it’s because doing taxes is such a complicated, frustrating experience…