What is wv income tax rate

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: West Virginia's state income tax rate ranges from 3% to 6.5% based on progressive tax brackets, with residents owing state income tax on wages, interest, dividends, and business income.

Key Facts

Overview

West Virginia imposes a state income tax on residents and part-year residents who earn income within the state. The tax rate is progressive, meaning it increases as income levels rise, with marginal rates ranging from 3% at the lowest bracket to 6.5% at the highest bracket.

Tax Brackets and Rates

For the 2024 tax year, West Virginia's income tax brackets are structured as follows: 3% on income up to $10,000, 4% from $10,001 to $25,000, 4.5% from $25,001 to $40,000, 5% from $40,001 to $60,000, and 6.5% on income exceeding $60,000. These brackets apply to both single filers and joint filers, with different threshold amounts for each filing status.

Deductions and Credits

West Virginia residents can claim a standard deduction, which varies by filing status and age, or itemize deductions if they exceed the standard deduction amount. The state also offers various tax credits, including the Education and Training Tax Credit for tuition expenses, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and credits for property taxes and rent paid.

Filing Requirements

Generally, West Virginia residents must file a state income tax return if their gross income exceeds the standard deduction threshold for their filing status. Part-year residents and non-residents who earned income in West Virginia may also be required to file. The filing deadline is typically April 15th of the following year, with extensions available upon request.

Special Considerations

West Virginia does not tax military retirement income or Social Security benefits, providing tax advantages for retirees. Additionally, the state offers the West Virginia Investors Tax Credit for certain business investments and has specific provisions for farmers and agricultural income.

Related Questions

How do West Virginia income tax brackets compare to other states?

West Virginia's top rate of 6.5% is moderate compared to states like California (13.3%) and New York (10.9%), but higher than states with no income tax like Texas and Florida. The progressive structure is similar to most states that impose income tax.

What is the West Virginia standard deduction for 2024?

The West Virginia standard deduction varies by filing status: for single filers it is approximately $2,640, for married filing jointly it is approximately $5,280, and for heads of household it is approximately $3,960. These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation.

Are West Virginia retirement benefits taxed?

West Virginia does not tax military retirement pay or Social Security benefits, making it attractive for retirees. However, other retirement income sources like IRAs, 401(k) withdrawals, and private pensions may be subject to state income tax unless specifically exempted.

Sources

  1. West Virginia State Tax Department Public Domain
  2. Wikipedia - Taxation in the United States CC-BY-SA-4.0
  3. Internal Revenue Service Public Domain