Capital gain/loss: Separating an Investment Gain from Its Tax Bill
Sale proceeds minus cost basis gives a gain or loss in money terms. Keep the calculation separate from the tax question so that a gain is not mistaken for cash retained after all obligations.
Use the Capital gain/loss Calculator to enter your own figures and compare the result with the worked example below.
Capital gain/loss formula
Gain or loss = Sale proceeds − Cost basis
Worked example
| Item | Example value |
|---|---|
| Sale proceeds | 15000 USD |
| Cost basis | 10000 USD |
| Capital gain/loss | 5,000 USD |
These are illustrative inputs, not current prices, rates or recommended targets. Where a currency is shown, keep all comparable money amounts in the same currency; conversion examples identify the two sides separately.
How to interpret the result
Confirm how fees and adjustments enter the basis. Tax treatment depends on the asset, holding period and applicable rules.
Related calculations
Method and further reading
The example follows the FinMathly calculator method. For broader background, see Investor.gov: Introduction to investing. The background resource may use jurisdiction-specific terms; it does not replace the assumptions of this calculator.
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