Net Capital Gain Explained: Legal Definition and Implications

Definition & Meaning

Net capital gain refers to the amount by which your net long-term capital gains exceed your net short-term capital losses for a given taxable year. In simpler terms, it is the profit you make from selling investments or assets that you've held for more than one year, after subtracting any losses from assets you've held for one year or less.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, if you sold stocks for a profit of $10,000 after holding them for two years, and you also sold other stocks at a loss of $3,000 after holding them for six months, your net capital gain would be $7,000 ($10,000 profit - $3,000 loss).

(Hypothetical example) If a person bought a property for $200,000 and sold it for $300,000 after three years, they would have a net capital gain of $100,000, assuming no other losses to offset this gain.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Capital gain The profit from the sale of an asset. Net capital gain accounts for losses, while capital gain does not.
Short-term capital gain Profit from the sale of an asset held for one year or less. Short-term gains are taxed at ordinary income rates, whereas net capital gains may be taxed at lower rates.
Long-term capital gain Profit from the sale of an asset held for more than one year. Only long-term gains contribute to net capital gains calculations.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you have realized capital gains or losses, start by gathering records of your asset transactions. You can use US Legal Forms to find templates that help you report these on your tax return. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a tax professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Tax Rate Varies based on income level and whether the gains are long-term or short-term.
Reporting Reported on IRS Form 1040, Schedule D.
Offsetting Losses Short-term losses can offset short-term gains, and long-term losses can offset long-term gains.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Short-term capital gains are from assets held for one year or less and are taxed at ordinary income rates, while long-term gains are from assets held for more than one year and are taxed at reduced rates.