Texas Capital Gains Tax (2026)
Texas capital gains tax rate: No state capital gains tax
Texas levies no state capital gains tax. However, the franchise tax (on gross margin) applies to businesses including LLCs and S-corps, which can effectively tax business-related capital gains at the entity level in certain structures.
Federal Capital Gains Rates Still Apply to Texas Residents
All Texas residents also owe federal capital gains tax. Federal long-term capital gains rates are 0% (income up to ~$47,025 single), 15% (income up to ~$518,900 single), or 20% (above). High earners may also owe the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT).
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Capital Gains in Texas
Assets held less than one year are taxed as ordinary income at federal rates (10%–37%). Assets held over one year qualify for the preferential 0%/15%/20% federal rates. Texas levies no state capital gains tax. However, the franchise tax (on gross margin) applies to businesses including LLCs and S-corps, which can effectively tax business-related capital gains at the entity level in certain structures.
Planning Considerations for Texas Investors
- Tax-loss harvesting can offset gains at both state and federal levels
- Timing asset sales to control income year and bracket placement
- Texas has no capital gains tax — only federal rates apply, simplifying planning
- Qualified Opportunity Zone investments can defer federal and potentially state gains
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital gains tax rate in Texas?
Texas levies no state capital gains tax. However, the franchise tax (on gross margin) applies to businesses including LLCs and S-corps, which can effectively tax business-related capital gains at the entity level in certain structures. Federal rates (0%, 15%, 20% for long-term gains) also apply regardless of state.
Does Texas have a different rate for long-term vs. short-term capital gains?
Texas has no capital gains tax. The distinction between short- and long-term gains only matters for federal tax purposes, where short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income and long-term gains at 0%/15%/20%.
How do I reduce capital gains tax in Texas?
Strategies include: holding assets over one year for federal long-term rates, tax-loss harvesting to offset gains, contributing to retirement accounts (401k, IRA), investing in Qualified Opportunity Zones, and timing sales across tax years. Since Texas has no capital gains tax, federal planning is the primary focus.
Is this capital gains tax calculator free for Texas?
Yes. Enter your gain amount, holding period, and annual income. The calculator applies both federal rates (0%/15%/20% long-term) and Texas's zero state rate to estimate your total tax owed.