10/16/2026
Could You Owe the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax?
Planning to sell appreciated stocks, investment real estate, or other assets before year-end? You may face an additional tax: the Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT).
The NIIT is an additional 3.8% tax that may apply when your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) exceeds these thresholds:
$200,000 for single filers and heads of household
$250,000 for married couples filing jointly
$125,000 for married taxpayers filing separately
The tax generally applies to the lesser of your net investment income or the amount your MAGI exceeds the applicable threshold. Investment income may include interest, dividends, capital gains, rental income, royalties, and certain passive business income.
Year-end tax planning may help reduce your exposure. Depending on your circumstances, strategies to consider include:
Evaluating whether to time a large asset sale for 2027
Harvesting capital losses to offset realized gains
Reviewing expected dividends and mutual fund capital gain distributions
Maximizing eligible pretax retirement plan or HSA contributions
Exploring installment sale options for qualifying transactions
Keep in mind that retirement account distributions generally aren't net investment income, but taxable distributions may increase MAGI and affect your NIIT liability.
Before making a major investment decision, consider the tax consequences alongside your financial goals and cash flow needs. A year-end tax projection can help you understand your potential exposure and evaluate your options.
For assistance with your 2026 tax planning, contact James P. O’Day, CPA, P.C. at (516) 671-3300.