Divorce brings complexities in property division, with capital gains tax implications occurring when a marital home sells for more than its purchase price. Understanding capital gains exclusions and their timing assists couples in avoiding costly surprises.
According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 35% of homeowners in Virginia now exceed the federal capital gains tax exemption, potentially triggering thousands in federal and state taxes when they sell.
More than half of Oregon homeowners may face unexpected tax liabilities due to increased home equity exceeding federal capital gains tax exclusions, potentially losing significant profits on sales.
The capital gains exclusion was designed in 1997 to help homeowners avoid taxes when selling their primary residence. At the time, the $250,000 (individual) and $500,000 (joint) limits covered most home sales. But those limits have never been adjusted for inflation.