Your Pay Details
Your Take-Home Pay
| Gross Pay | $0 |
| Federal Income Tax | –$0 |
| Social Security (6.2%) | –$0 |
| Medicare (1.45%) | –$0 |
| West Virginia State Tax | –$0 |
| Take-Home Pay | $0 |
| ⚠ Local & City Income Tax may apply | |
Municipal B&O Taxes in West Virginia
A handful of West Virginia cities levy a Business & Occupation (B&O) tax that applies to wages earned within city limits. Charleston and a few other municipalities participate, though rates are generally low — typically between 0.4% and 1%.
These municipal taxes are less common and lower than the local taxes found in states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Kentucky. Most West Virginia residents outside of a handful of cities are not subject to any local income tax on wages.
The calculator on this page reflects West Virginia state tax only. If you work in Charleston or another city with a B&O tax, your actual take-home pay may be slightly lower.
How Your West Virginia Paycheck Works
West Virginia has been actively reducing its income tax rates. The 2025 rate schedule ranges from 2% to 4.8%, significantly lower than prior years. Personal exemptions apply instead of a standard deduction.
Federal Income Tax
Calculated using 2025 federal brackets from 10% to 37%, applied to taxable income after the standard deduction.
Social Security
6.2% of gross pay up to $176,100. Funds the Social Security retirement and disability program.
Medicare
1.45% of all gross pay. High earners over $200K pay an additional 0.9% surtax.
West Virginia State Tax
West Virginia uses graduated income tax brackets ranging from 2%–4.8%. Lower incomes pay lower rates.
2025 West Virginia State Tax Brackets
Here are the West Virginia income tax brackets for single filers in 2025.
| Rate | Taxable Income (Single) |
|---|---|
| 2.00% | $0 – $10,000 |
| 3.00% | $10,001 – $25,000 |
| 3.50% | $25,001 – $40,000 |
| 4.00% | $40,001 – $60,000 |
| 4.80% | $60,001+ |
Major Cities in West Virginia
Whether you live in Charleston, Huntington, or anywhere else in West Virginia, state tax rates apply uniformly — your city does not change your paycheck calculation. Local taxes and cost of living vary by city, as shown below.
* Population from U.S. Census estimates. Home prices and rent are 2023–2024 estimates. Local income tax applies to residents unless noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is West Virginia's state income tax rate?
West Virginia has graduated income tax rates ranging from 2%–4.8%. The rate you pay depends on your taxable income after deductions.
How much of my paycheck goes to taxes in West Virginia?
A single filer earning $55,000/year in West Virginia typically pays an effective state rate well below the top bracket rate. Combined with federal taxes and FICA, total deductions typically run 25–33% of gross pay.
What is FICA and how much is it?
FICA covers Social Security (6.2% up to $176,100) and Medicare (1.45% with no cap). Together that is 7.65% of gross pay, paid by every US worker regardless of state.
How do pre-tax deductions like a 401(k) reduce my taxes?
Pre-tax deductions reduce both your federal and state taxable income. A $5,000 annual 401(k) contribution can save hundreds in combined federal and state taxes.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator uses 2025 federal and state tax brackets. Results are estimates — your actual paycheck may vary based on W-4 elections, employer deductions, and local taxes not included here.