Depreciation Recapture Tax Calculator

Quantify unrecaptured Section 1250 depreciation recapture at 25%, plus federal capital gains and NIIT, on the sale of a rental property.

Recapture Rate
25%
Unrecaptured §1250
Residential Life
27.5 yrs
Straight-line
Commercial Life
39 yrs
Straight-line

Formula & Statutory Rule

Formula
recapture_tax = min(recognized_gain, accumulated_depreciation) × 25%
Statutory Rule
residential_life = 27.5 yrs; commercial_life = 39 yrs; straight_line = true

Regional Benchmark Reference

US depreciation rules
Jurisdiction / TierRate or LimitStatutory Note
Recapture25%§1250
Residential27.5 yrsStraight-line
Commercial39 yrsStraight-line

Frequently Asked Questions

What is depreciation recapture?

It is the tax on depreciation previously claimed, charged at up to 25% for unrecaptured Section 1250 gain.

How is residential depreciation calculated?

Residential rental property is depreciated straight-line over 27.5 years.

How is commercial depreciation calculated?

Commercial property is depreciated straight-line over 39 years.

Can a 1031 exchange defer recapture?

Yes. A qualifying like-kind exchange defers recapture along with the capital gain.

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