<prompt> Human: Im worried about selling any of my stocks or mutual funds in the future because my actual income isnt enough to cover the captial gains tax. As in, I would have to sell more stock just to cover the taxes, which means more taxes. I didnt realize till now that this would be a problem. Say Ive made 100k in some stock that I want to sell before it goes bust and put said money into a safer vehicle. Fine. But then I would owe approximately 30k in taxes. Now I am freaking out. Not that Im in that situation, but I am investing as a means to earn money for future use ie not retirement. The idea of doubling my money seemed great, until I realized I dont make enough money to pay the taxes if I do get lucky.  <response>: You would pay for the taxes out of the income from selling. If you made 100k and owe 30k in taxes, then you still net 70k. 