Free tool

Bright-line Test Calculator

Check whether a sale falls inside the 2-year bright-line window — and if it does, how long until it doesn't. Based on the current IRD rules for any sale from 1 July 2024 onward.

Your dates

The date title transferred to you (settlement day) — not the date you signed the sale and purchase agreement to buy.
For the sale, the date that counts is the day you sign a sale and purchase agreement to sell — not the settlement date of that sale.

Your result

Enter your settlement date and the result will appear here.

This calculator applies the current flat 2-year bright-line rule, which applies to any property sale from 1 July 2024 onward, measured from your settlement date to the date you sign a sale and purchase agreement to sell. It doesn't cover off-the-plan purchases, subdivided land, trust ownership, relationship property transfers, or property that was already sold before 1 July 2024, all of which follow different rules. This is general information, not tax advice — confirm your specific position with an accountant before making a decision. Bright-line rules have changed several times since 2015 and could change again; this calculator reflects the law as at August 2026.

Related reading: the bright-line test explained · weighing a sale? Try the sell-or-hold calculator. Source: ird.govt.nz — the bright-line test.

Talk to a mentor about this

Bright-line is only one piece of a sell-or-hold decision. A free strategy session can help you look at the whole picture.

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