Do most brokers charge commissions now?

Most US retail brokers (Fidelity, Schwab, Robinhood, TD Ameritrade) charge $0 commissions for US stock trades. Options still typically cost $0.50–$0.65 per contract. International stocks, OTC stocks, and some mutual funds may have fees.

What is the difference between realized and unrealized gains?

Unrealized gains exist on paper while you still hold the stock. Realized gains occur when you sell — only realized gains are taxable in the year of sale.

How does holding period affect taxes?

Stocks held more than 1 year qualify for long-term capital gains rates (0%, 15%, or 20% depending on income). Held 1 year or less are short-term, taxed as ordinary income (10–37%). Always consider taxes before selling.

What is the wash sale rule?

If you sell a stock at a loss and repurchase the same or substantially identical security within 30 days before or after, the IRS disallows the loss. This rule prevents artificial tax-loss harvesting.

Stock Profit Calculator — Net Gain After Commissions | KalkWise

By the KalkWise Editorial Team Reviewed for accuracy Updated June 2026

What is the stock profit calculator — net gain after commissions?

In short

Stock profit = (sell price − buy price) × shares − all commissions. A trade of 100 shares bought at $50 and sold at $75 with $0 commissions yields a $2,500 profit (50% return).

Calculates net profit, return percentage, total cost basis, and total proceeds from a stock trade, accounting for buy and sell commissions.

How to use this calculator

1Enter the number of shares traded.
2Enter the buy price per share.
3Enter the sell price per share.
4Enter any commissions paid (buy and sell separately).

The formula

Net Profit=(V−B)×S−C

Return %=Net ProfitTotal Cost×100

Total Cost = S × B + C_buy; Total Proceeds = S × V − C_sell; Net Profit = Proceeds − Cost; Return % = Profit ÷ Cost × 100

S: — Shares
B: — Buy price
V: — Sell price
C: — Total commissions

Worked example

The scenario

100 shares bought at $50, sold at $75, $0 commissions.

gives

The result

Total cost: $5,000. Total proceeds: $7,500. Net profit: $2,500. Return: 50%.

Common use cases

Verify trade profitability before selling.
Track realized gains for tax reporting.
Evaluate if a potential trade meets return targets.
Model different exit prices to find break-even point.

Limitations & assumptions

Does not calculate capital gains tax — short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income; long-term at preferential rates.
Does not account for stock splits, dividends received, or wash sale rules.
Currency risk is not modeled for international stocks.
Return % without time factor is not directly comparable across investments held for different periods.

Frequently asked questions

Break-even sell price = (total cost + sell commission) ÷ shares. For 100 shares bought at $50 with a $5 commission, break-even sell = ($5,005) ÷ 100 = $50.05/share.

Disclaimer: KalkWise calculators are provided for general informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the figures you enter and the assumptions described above. Actual outcomes will vary. Consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.