Break-even calculator
This finds the sell price that returns the cost of the shares plus the buy fee and the sell fee. At that price the gain is zero, so a tax rate does not change the result. The break-even guide uses the same example.
Break-even sell price = (buy price × shares + buy fee + sell fee) ÷ shares
Break-even sell price
Enter shares, buy price, and both fees. Fees may be zero.
How to find a break-even sell price
- Enter the share count and buy price. Both must be greater than zero. Fees may be zero.
- Enter the buy fee and the sell fee. Flat fees are dollar amounts. Percent fees are a percent of the buy cost and of the sale proceeds. A percent sell fee is in the divisor, because you only keep one minus that percent of the sale.
- Read the sell price that covers the cost. That price returns the cash you spent. Anything above it is a gain before tax.
Frequently asked questions
- How do you calculate a break-even sell price?
- Add buy fees to the cost of the shares, then divide by the shares you keep after a percent sell fee. Flat fees only: 100 shares at $50 with a $5 buy fee and a $5 sell fee break even at $50.10. The same shares with a 1% buy fee and a 1% sell fee break even near $51.01.
- Why does tax stay out of the break-even price?
- Tax applies to a gain. At the break-even price the gain is zero, so the tax is zero. A target profit above that price is where a tax rate would reduce what you keep.
- Is this investment advice?
- No. The calculator is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security.
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