tax-optimizelisted
Install: claude install-skill ssurmic/claude-investment-skills
# Tax Optimize — LTCG vs STCG Decision Framework
## Goal
When user wants to trim a winner, **don't just sell** — calculate:
1. **LTCG vs STCG difference** ($ saved by waiting)
2. **Specific lot identification** (which shares to sell first)
3. **Hedge-with-put alternative** (no taxable event, similar risk reduction)
4. **Tax-loss harvesting** (offset gains with losses elsewhere)
## US Tax Rates Quick Reference (2026)
### Short-Term Capital Gains (held < 1 year)
**Taxed as ordinary income.** Federal rates depend on AGI:
| AGI (single) | AGI (MFJ) | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| < $11,925 | < $23,850 | 10% |
| $11,925-48,475 | $23,850-96,950 | 12% |
| $48,475-103,350 | $96,950-206,700 | 22% |
| $103,350-197,300 | $206,700-394,600 | 24% |
| $197,300-250,525 | $394,600-501,050 | 32% |
| $250,525-626,350 | $501,050-751,600 | 35% |
| > $626,350 | > $751,600 | 37% |
**Plus state tax**: 0-13.3% (CA highest, TX/FL/WA = 0%)
**Plus NIIT** (Net Investment Income Tax): 3.8% if MAGI > $200K (single) / $250K (MFJ)
### Long-Term Capital Gains (held ≥ 1 year)
**Federal:**
| AGI (single) | AGI (MFJ) | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| < $48,350 | < $96,700 | 0% |
| $48,350-533,400 | $96,700-600,050 | 15% |
| > $533,400 | > $600,050 | 20% |
**Plus state**: same as ordinary (CA does NOT distinguish LTCG)
**Plus NIIT**: 3.8% if applicable
### Quick rule of thumb (high earner, $400K+ income)
- **STCG**: 32-37% federal + 3.8% NIIT + state = **38-50%+ effective**
- **LTCG**: 20% federal + 3.8% NIIT + state =