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US alternative minimum tax (AMT) calculator
Whether the AMT applies to you in 2026, with the new faster exemption phase-out and ISO exercises.
About this calculator
What it estimates
The alternative minimum tax is a second calculation that runs alongside the regular one. You pay whichever is higher. For 2026 the exemption phases out faster than before, so more high earners and people exercising incentive stock options need to check it.
How it works
We work out your regular tax, then add back items the AMT does not allow. Examples are state and local taxes, the standard deduction and the bargain element on ISOs.
The exemption ($90,100 single, $140,200 joint, $70,100 married filing separately) is reduced by 50 cents for each dollar above $500,000 ($1,000,000 joint). The remainder is taxed at 26% up to $244,500 ($122,250 separate) and 28% above. Qualified dividends and long-term gains keep their 0%, 15% and 20% rates.
Assumptions (US 2026 tax year rates)
- •No AMT foreign tax credit and no foreign earned income exclusion
- •No credits and no net investment income tax
Estimates only, for orientation. Rates and thresholds change each tax year and your actual liability depends on facts this tool does not ask for. This is not tax advice.
For US–UK filers
Why your real number differs
The AMT has its own foreign tax credit, and since 2005 it is no longer capped at 90%. So people paying UK tax on UK salary rarely owe AMT in practice. The exclusion also uses stacking for AMT. ISO exercises by Americans working for US companies from London are the most common trigger. Form 6251 is needed to confirm the position.
Related
Sources
- IRC sections 55 to 59
- IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 (2026 inflation adjustments)
- IRS Instructions for Form 6251