Free tool · IRC § 1445 · 26 CFR § 1.1445-2(d)(2)

FIRPTA withholding calculator for Canadian sellers

Estimate the FIRPTA withholding on the sale of US real estate by a Canadian non-resident. The calculator applies the three exemption tiers (0%, 10%, 15%) and computes your net proceeds at closing before any Form 8288-B reduction. Free, no login, no email required.

Inputs

Gross sales price (USD)

Will the buyer sign a residence affidavit (50%+ personal use over 2 years)?

Original cost basis (USD, optional)

Capital improvements added since purchase (USD, optional)

Note. The standard 15% withholding applies to the gross sale price, not the gain. Three exemption tiers reduce this rate when the buyer signs a residence affidavit. Form 8288-B filed before closing can further reduce the withholding to align with your actual US tax due.

Estimated withholding

Applicable tier: —

FIRPTA withheld—

Net to seller at closing—

Estimated capital gain—

Next step. Read the full guide: FIRPTA explained — the 15% withholding when a Canadian sells Florida real estate.

To reduce the withholding, file Form 8288-B before closing.

Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational purpose only. It applies the FIRPTA tiers set out in IRC § 1445 and 26 CFR § 1.1445-2(d)(2) and a simplified gain assumption. It does not account for the particularities of your file (holding structure, deductions, depreciation, exact tax status, actual Canadian-side calculations).

For any concrete decision, consult a cross-border tax attorney, a Canada-US CPA, and the Florida-licensed closing agent. The calculator does not replace these professional consultations.