Vermont Real Estate Sale: Capital Gains Tax Explained

No discount for an ordinary house — only a narrow exclusion carved out for business and farm sales.

Vermont Dept. of Taxes

Quick answer: up to 8.75% for 2026, since Vermont simply folds the gain into ordinary taxable income for a residential house sale. See the full cost picture in the Vermont probate real estate sale calculator.

No separate schedule for an ordinary house

Four brackets, topping out at 8.75%

Vermont's 2026 income tax runs four brackets: 3.35% up to roughly $45,400, 6.6% up to roughly $110,450, 7.6% up to roughly $229,050, and 8.75% above that for a single filer.

A narrow exclusion, not a general one

Vermont does offer a 40% capital gains exclusion, but specifically for qualifying business or farm sales — not for an ordinary inherited residence, so most estate house sales won't benefit from it.

A separate question from the state estate tax

Vermont's own state estate tax applies above a filing and payment threshold recently harmonized at $5 million (effective June 18, 2026) — a distinct calculation from the income tax on the sale's gain, and one that affects far fewer estates.

Facing probate in Vermont?

A local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.

Talk to a Vermont attorney

The graduated bracket schedule applies identically whether the sale closes in any of Vermont's 14 counties.

Capital gains tax on the sale — frequently asked questions

Does Vermont give long-term capital gains a lower rate?

No, not for an ordinary house sale — Vermont taxes capital gains as ordinary income under its regular graduated brackets, with no separate schedule for long-term gains.

What are Vermont's 2026 income tax brackets?

Four brackets: 3.35% up to roughly $45,400, 6.6% up to roughly $110,450, 7.6% up to roughly $229,050, and 8.75% above that for a single filer.

Is there any capital gains exclusion in Vermont at all?

Yes, but a narrow one — Vermont offers a 40% capital gains exclusion specifically for qualifying business or farm sales, not for an ordinary inherited residence.

Does Vermont have a state estate tax on top of this income tax?

Yes — Vermont's own state estate tax applies above a filing and payment threshold recently harmonized at $5 million (effective June 18, 2026), a distinct calculation from the income tax on the sale's gain.

This page provides general guidance only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Based on Vermont Department of Taxes guidance and federal Internal Revenue Code § 1014. Confirm current figures with the IRS, the Vermont Department of Taxes, a CPA, or a licensed Vermont attorney before acting.