Step 1: Set Your Goal
Adjust this amount to see how the "tax-free stacking" works.
Key Assumptions (2026 Projections)
- Married Filing Jointly
- Standard Deduction: $32,200
- Max 0% Capital Gains AGI: $90,000*
*Targeting $90,000 AGI maximizes ACA health insurance subsidies while staying within the 0% long-term capital gains bracket.
Your Zero-Tax Breakdown
Total Federal Tax
$0
Taxable Brokerage (LTCG)
$90,000
Roth 401(k) / IRAs
$80,000
HSA Reimbursements
$30,000
The "Stacking" Logic
By pulling from multiple "tax buckets," you can engineer an income that feels like $200k but looks much smaller to the IRS. Roth and HSA withdrawals don't count toward your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
0% Capital Gains
If your taxable income is low enough ($96,700 for couples), your long-term capital gains are taxed at 0%. When combined with the $32,200 standard deduction, you can realize significant gains tax-free.
HSA Strategy
HSA reimbursements are completely tax-free. By paying medical bills with cash during your working years and saving the receipts, you create a pool of tax-free capital for retirement.