<prompt> Human: Probably a simple question, but google answers are contradictory. Im self employed, and had a sudden windfall.There are a few stocks Id like to invest my money in. As I understand it, if I left all my cash in the bank, Id be taxed on the money I received. But if I use the cash to buy stocks, and say the stock stays flat and I dont sell, do I have to pay tax on those stocks?Thanks  <response>: Whats the windfall? An inheritance? A bonus? Why would you be taxed on money in a bank account? You get taxed based on the source of the money, not where you keep it.You dont pay tax on stocks, you pay taxes on capital gainsdividends. Which means you only get taxed if you sell or receive dividends. 