A realized gain occurs when an investor sells an asset, such as a stock, bond, or real estate, for a profit. The gain is the difference between the selling price and the asset's cost basis (the original purchase price plus any associated costs). Realized gains are subject to capital gains taxes, which are typically lower than ordinary income tax rates.
The original purchase price of an asset, plus any associated costs such as commissions, fees, and improvements. The cost basis is used to calculate the realized gain or loss when the asset is sold.
The price at which an asset is sold. The selling price is used to calculate the realized gain or loss when compared to the cost basis.
A tax on the profit from the sale of an asset. Capital gains taxes are typically lower than ordinary income tax rates and vary depending on the holding period (short-term vs. long-term).
The formula for calculating a realized gain is:
Realized Gain = Selling Price - Cost Basis
For example, if an investor buys a stock for $100 and sells it for $150, the realized gain is $50.
Profits from assets held for one year or less. Short-term capital gains are taxed as ordinary income at the investor's regular income tax rate.
Profits from assets held for more than one year. Long-term capital gains are taxed at preferential rates, which are typically lower than ordinary income tax rates.
Capital gains tax rates vary depending on the investor's income level and the holding period of the asset. Long-term capital gains rates are typically 0%, 15%, or 20%, while short-term capital gains are taxed as ordinary income.
A strategy of selling investments at a loss to offset capital gains. Tax-loss harvesting can help reduce an investor's tax liability.
A rule that prevents investors from claiming a loss on a security if they buy the same or a "substantially identical" security within 30 days before or after the sale.
An investor buys 100 shares of a stock for $50 per share and sells them for $75 per share. The realized gain is $25 per share, or $2,500 in total.
An investor buys a bond for $1,000 and sells it for $1,100. The realized gain is $100.
An investor buys a property for $200,000 and sells it for $300,000. The realized gain is $100,000.
Holding assets for more than one year qualifies the gains for long-term capital gains tax rates, which are typically lower than short-term rates.
Investing in tax-advantaged accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and Roth IRAs can help defer or eliminate capital gains taxes.
Selling investments at a loss to offset capital gains can help reduce tax liability.
Gifting appreciated assets to family members in lower tax brackets can help reduce the overall tax burden.
The profit an investor would make if they sold an asset at its current market price, but have not yet sold it. Unrealized gains are not taxable until the asset is sold and the gain is realized.
The key difference between a realized gain and an unrealized gain is that a realized gain is a taxable event, while an unrealized gain is not.