Key Takeaways
• Virginia’s 2025 state income tax rates remain unchanged, ranging from 2% to 5.75% across four brackets.
• Filing deadline for 2025 Virginia state tax return is May 1, 2026; all residents and some nonresidents must file.
• Standard deduction is $8,000 for singles and $16,000 for joint filers; seniors may deduct up to $12,000.
Virginia’s state income tax system for 2025 remains a key topic for anyone living, working, or planning to move to Virginia. This update provides a clear summary of the current tax rates and brackets, who must file, what deductions and credits are available, and what these rules mean for immigrants, families, students, and workers. It also explains what has changed, what has stayed the same, and what you need to do if you are affected. Whether you are a new arrival, a long-time resident, or someone with pending immigration or tax matters, understanding Virginia’s state income tax rules for 2025 is essential for planning your finances and staying compliant with the law.
Summary of What Changed for 2025
As of July 2025, Virginia’s state income tax rates and brackets remain unchanged from previous years. The system is still progressive, meaning the tax rate increases as your income goes up. There have been no new laws or policy changes affecting the tax rates or brackets for 2025. However, it is always wise to check the Virginia Department of Taxation for any last-minute updates or announcements.
Who Is Affected by Virginia’s State Income Tax in 2025?
Anyone who lives or works in Virginia 🇺🇸, including immigrants, international students, temporary workers, and permanent residents, may be required to file a Virginia state income tax return. The rules apply to:
- Residents: People who live in Virginia for more than 183 days in a year.
- Part-year residents: Those who moved into or out of Virginia during the year.
- Nonresidents: People who earned income from Virginia sources but live elsewhere.
If you are an immigrant or international student, you may need to file a state income tax return even if you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. The rules depend on your visa status, how long you have lived in Virginia, and your income sources.
Effective Dates and Filing Deadlines
The 2025 tax year covers income earned from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. The deadline to file your Virginia state income tax return is usually May 1, 2026. If you need more time, you can request an extension, but you must still pay any taxes owed by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest.
Virginia State Income Tax Rates and Brackets for 2025
Virginia’s state income tax system uses four brackets, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. The tax applies to your taxable income, which is your federal adjusted gross income (AGI) with certain adjustments.
Here are the 2025 tax brackets and rates:
- 2%: Applies to the first $3,000 of taxable income.
- 3%: Applies to income between $3,001 and $5,000.
- 5%: Applies to income between $5,001 and $17,000.
- 5.75%: Applies to income above $17,000.
Example Calculation
Let’s say you have $50,000 in taxable income for 2025. Here’s how your Virginia state income tax would be calculated:
- 2% on the first $3,000 = $60
- 3% on the next $2,000 ($3,001 to $5,000) = $60
- 5% on the next $12,000 ($5,001 to $17,000) = $600
- 5.75% on the remaining $33,000 (above $17,000) = $1,897.50
Total Virginia state income tax owed: $2,617.50
Who Must File a Virginia State Income Tax Return in 2025?
You must file a Virginia state income tax return if your adjusted gross income (AGI) is above certain limits:
- Single filers: More than $11,950
- Married filing jointly: More than $23,900
If your income is below these amounts, you may not need to file, but you should check the official rules or speak with a tax professional if you are unsure.
Special Note for Immigrants and International Students
If you are in the United States 🇺🇸 on a visa (such as F-1, J-1, H-1B, or L-1), your filing requirements depend on your residency status for tax purposes. Even if you are considered a nonresident for federal tax, you may still be a resident for Virginia tax if you lived in the state for more than 183 days. Always check your visa status and consult with a tax advisor if you have questions.
Deductions and Adjustments for 2025
Virginia offers several deductions and adjustments that can lower your taxable income:
Standard Deduction
- Single filers: $8,000
- Married filing jointly: $16,000
Important: You cannot claim the standard deduction on your Virginia return if you itemized deductions on your federal return.
Itemized Deductions
If you itemize deductions on your federal return, you must also itemize on your Virginia return. These deductions include things like mortgage interest, medical expenses, and charitable donations, but they must match what you claimed on your federal return.
Subtractions from AGI
Virginia allows you to subtract certain types of income from your AGI, which can help reduce your state income tax bill. Common subtractions include:
- Disability income
- Virginia lottery prizes
- Distributions from Virginia college savings plans
- Income earned as a member of the Virginia National Guard
Retirement Income and Senior Citizens
If you are 65 or older, you may claim a deduction of up to $12,000, depending on your income. Social Security benefits are not taxable in Virginia, but other retirement income, such as pensions and withdrawals from 401(k) or IRA accounts, is taxable.
Required Actions for Taxpayers
If you live, work, or earn income in Virginia 🇺🇸, here’s what you need to do for the 2025 tax year:
- Check your residency status: Determine if you are a resident, part-year resident, or nonresident for Virginia tax purposes.
- Gather your documents: Collect your federal tax return, W-2s, 1099s, and any other income statements.
- Calculate your taxable income: Start with your federal AGI and adjust for any Virginia-specific additions or subtractions.
- Choose your deductions: Decide if you will take the standard deduction or itemize, based on your federal return.
- Complete your Virginia state income tax return: Use the correct form for your status. For most individuals, this is Form 760. You can find the official form here.
- File by the deadline: Submit your return by May 1, 2026, or request an extension if needed.
- Pay any taxes owed: Make sure to pay by the deadline to avoid penalties and interest.
Implications for Pending Applications and Immigration Status
For immigrants, international students, and workers on temporary visas, staying current with your state income tax filings is very important. Failing to file or pay your Virginia state income tax can have serious consequences, including:
- Penalties and interest on unpaid taxes
- Problems renewing your visa or adjusting your immigration status
- Issues with future applications for permanent residency or citizenship
If you have a pending immigration application, make sure your tax filings are up to date and accurate. Immigration officers often ask for proof of tax compliance during the application process.
Practical Tips for Immigrants and New Arrivals
- Keep good records: Save copies of your tax returns, W-2s, and other income documents.
- Understand your visa status: Know whether you are considered a resident or nonresident for tax purposes.
- Seek help if needed: If you are unsure about your filing requirements, contact a tax professional or visit the Virginia Department of Taxation for guidance.
- Don’t ignore tax notices: If you receive a letter from the Virginia Department of Taxation, respond promptly to avoid further problems.
Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that many immigrants and international students are surprised by the differences between federal and state tax rules. For example, some types of income that are not taxed at the federal level may still be taxed by Virginia. It’s important to review both sets of rules carefully.
How Virginia’s State Income Tax Compares to Other States
Virginia’s state income tax rates are considered moderate compared to other states. The progressive system means that people with higher incomes pay a higher rate, while those with lower incomes pay less. Some states have no state income tax at all, while others have higher top rates. Virginia’s top rate of 5.75% is lower than some neighboring states but higher than others.
For immigrants and new arrivals, this means you should factor state income tax into your budget when deciding where to live and work. If you are moving from a state with no income tax, you may notice a difference in your take-home pay.
Common Questions About Virginia State Income Tax in 2025
Do I have to pay Virginia state income tax if I am only in the state for part of the year?
Yes, if you lived or worked in Virginia for part of the year, you may need to file as a part-year resident. You will only pay tax on the income earned while you were in Virginia.
What if I work in Virginia but live in another state?
If you earn income from Virginia sources but live elsewhere, you may need to file as a nonresident. You will pay tax only on your Virginia-source income.
Are there any tax credits available?
Virginia offers several tax credits, including credits for low-income individuals, education expenses, and child and dependent care. Check the Virginia Department of Taxation for a full list of available credits.
How do I file my Virginia state income tax return?
You can file electronically through the Virginia Department of Taxation’s website, by mail, or with the help of a tax professional. Most individuals use Form 760 for residents, which you can find here.
What happens if I miss the filing deadline?
If you miss the May 1, 2026, deadline, you may face penalties and interest on any taxes owed. File as soon as possible to minimize these charges.
Future Outlook and Policy Watch
While there are no announced changes to Virginia’s state income tax rates or brackets for 2025, it’s always possible that new laws or budget needs could lead to adjustments in the future. Economic conditions, changes in federal tax law, or decisions by the Virginia General Assembly could affect state income tax rules in coming years.
Stay informed by checking the Virginia Department of Taxation regularly, especially if you have pending immigration or tax matters that could be affected by changes in the law.
Contact Information for Help
If you have questions or need help with your Virginia state income tax return, you can contact the Virginia Department of Taxation:
- Phone: (804) 367-8037
- Website: Virginia Tax
You can also find helpful information and forms on their website, including instructions for special situations like part-year residents, nonresidents, and military personnel.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
- Virginia’s state income tax rates and brackets for 2025 remain unchanged.
- All residents, part-year residents, and nonresidents with Virginia-source income may need to file.
- Filing deadline is May 1, 2026.
- Standard deduction is $8,000 for singles, $16,000 for joint filers.
- Senior citizens may claim up to $12,000 in retirement income deductions.
- Social Security benefits are not taxed, but other retirement income is.
- Immigrants and international students must pay close attention to residency and filing rules.
- Use Form 760 for most individual filings.
- Check the Virginia Department of Taxation for updates and official forms.
By understanding these rules and taking the right steps, you can stay compliant, avoid penalties, and make the most of the deductions and credits available to you. If you are an immigrant or have pending applications, keeping your tax records in order is especially important for your future in the United States 🇺🇸. Always seek help if you are unsure, and stay informed about any changes that could affect your tax situation in Virginia.
Learn Today
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) → Income after specific deductions on your federal tax return, used to calculate taxable income for Virginia.
Part-year resident → A person who moved in or out of Virginia during the tax year, taxed on income earned in Virginia.
Standard Deduction → A fixed dollar amount reducing taxable income, varying by filing status, used instead of itemizing deductions in Virginia.
Filing Extension → An official delay request for submitting tax returns, requiring payment by the original deadline to avoid penalties.
Tax Brackets → Income ranges with corresponding tax rates that increase progressively as income rises in Virginia’s tax system.
This Article in a Nutshell
Virginia’s 2025 state income tax keeps steady rates and brackets. Residents, immigrants, and international students must file by May 1, 2026, understanding deductions, credits, and filing requirements ensures compliance and financial planning. Staying updated with Virginia’s tax rules is essential for all taxpayers and visa holders.
— By VisaVerge.com
