Tax on gold and silver: US capital gains calculator
The IRS treats physical gold, silver, platinum and palladium as collectibles. Held more than a year, the gain is taxed at your ordinary rate but no more than 28%; held a year or less, at your ordinary rate. Sales tax on buying depends on your state. The calculator estimates the federal tax for individuals.
Gold and silver tax calculator
Enter what you bought and, if you like, what you sell it for. You get the VAT or GST in the price and an estimate of the tax on the sale.
US federal rules for individuals
When you buy
- No federal VAT or sales tax. State sales tax varies: many states exempt bullion, some only above a minimum purchase.
When you sell
- Collectibles: physical precious metals are collectibles under 26 U.S.C. 408(m), including bullion coins and bars.
- Held more than one year: taxed at your ordinary rate, but no more than 28% (IRS Topic 409).
- Held one year or less: taxed as ordinary income, 10% to 37%.
- Net Investment Income Tax: 3.8% extra if your modified AGI is above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly).
- For investors, not for dealers who sell metal as a business.
Official sources: IRS Topic 409, Capital gains and losses · 26 U.S.C. 408(m) (collectibles) · IRS Topic 559, Net Investment Income Tax · IRS 2026 tax brackets (IR-2025-103). Rules checked on 12 Oct 2026.
FAQ
Do you pay taxes when you sell gold?
Yes, on the gain. Physical gold is a collectible: held more than a year, the gain is taxed at your ordinary rate up to a maximum of 28%; held a year or less, at your ordinary income rate.
Is there a 28% tax on gold?
28% is the maximum federal rate on long-term collectibles gains. If your ordinary bracket is lower, for example 12% or 22%, the lower rate applies.
Is silver taxed the same as gold?
Yes. Silver, platinum and palladium bullion are collectibles too, with the same short and long-term rules.
Do you pay sales tax on gold?
It depends on your state. There is no federal sales tax; many states exempt investment bullion, others tax it fully or only below a purchase threshold.
metalsradar.com compares precious metals prices and does not sell metal. This page explains the general rules for private individuals and is not tax advice. Your tax depends on your whole situation, so check it with a tax adviser or the tax office before you buy or sell.