What is Taxable Brokerage Account

The taxable brokerage accounts are the type of investment accounts that are similar to 401(k)s and IRAs in nature, but they work differently. While you would get tax benefits for contributing money to a 401(k) or IRA, the brokerage accounts don’t offer the same. 

A taxable brokerage account is pretty much your investment account that you have multiple investment options. The taxable brokerage account enables its holders to choose their investment types and hold money to earn interest. It’s a mix of both an interest-bearing account and an investment account altogether.  

You can earn money from your brokerage account by doing a wide variety of things. It’s possible to earn purchase stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, or by simply holding cash in your brokerage account. The income earned from brokerage accounts is generally taxed as ordinary income. But, if you hold an asset for more than a year and sell to make a profit, you’ll pay capital gains tax

The interest income earned from holding cash in your account is taxed as ordinary income whereas the sale of long-term properties is taxed as capital gains. You’ll pay 15 percent of income earned from capital gains if your taxable income is between $44,625 and $492,300. Taxpayers with taxable income below $44,625 are exempt from paying capital gains taxes. Those with taxable income of more than $492,300 pay 20 percent in capital gains taxes. 

When to use a taxable brokerage account?

Most people invest in a taxable brokerage account when they want to save up for something and earn while doing so, but don’t want to wait to get the funds. Regardless of what you’re saving the money for – whether it be your down payment, wedding expenses, vehicle purpose, you can utilize a taxable brokerage account to get the advantages of flexible investments that promise growth.  

How to reduce taxes in a taxable brokerage account?

There are multiple things you can do to lessen taxes on a taxable brokerage account. You can reduce turnover and stay away from incurring short-term capital gains as it will be taxed as ordinary income. Outside of this, you can optimize asset locations, purchase municipal bonds and funds, and be passive with your active index funds.

How much can I invest in my taxable brokerage account?

First and foremost, there are no contribution limits with taxable brokerage accounts. You can invest as much money as you like. It’s good to ask yourself, how much should I invest in my taxable brokerage account? Then, seek the answer for yourself. With no limit, taxable brokerage accounts can create the opportunity for both short and long-term gains.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button