Questions about rsu tax calculator
Are RSUs taxed when they vest or when I sell?
For typical RSUs that settle in shares at vesting, the value delivered is wage income. A later sale can create a capital gain or loss relative to the tax basis. This tool estimates the wage-income portion only; deferred settlement, private-company awards and double-trigger plans need separate analysis.
Why can selling RSUs appear to be taxed twice?
The wage value is generally part of your tax basis. Check that basis when reporting a sale so wage income is not also treated as a capital gain. Broker reporting and adjustments can vary.
Does this calculate shares withheld or future stock growth?
No. This estimates annual tax liability attributable to the vest value, not your employer's share withholding or capital gains after vesting. An immediate sale at the same value is assumed when interpreting the after-tax value as cash.
Sources and assumptions
Published October 8, 2026. Uses the shared TrueTaxCalc tax model. Estimates exclude credits, itemized deductions and special filing situations. State rules are simplified; see the methodology and verification scope.