What is the tax rate applied to Ben's gain from selling the painting for a profit of $600 if he is in the 15% tax bracket?

The tax rate applied to Ben's gain from selling the painting would be 15%, which corresponds to the income tax bracket he falls into. Capital gains are typically taxed at either ordinary income tax rates or at preferential rates depending on how long the asset was held before being sold. In this case, without additional information suggesting that the painting was held for a long time and qualifies for long-term capital gains treatment, it is presumed that the profit from selling the painting is taxed as ordinary income. Since Ben is in the 15% tax bracket, the profit from the sale would be taxed at that same rate. Therefore, it is appropriate to say that the gain from the sale of the painting is subject to the 15% rate.

The other tax rates mentioned do not apply here, as they are either higher rates meant for higher income brackets or specific gains that have different treatment under tax rules. Since Ben's gain falls within his ordinary income, the correct application would be to utilize the same rate as his income bracket. This understanding helps to distinguish how various types of income are taxed according to the taxpayer's specific situation.