How to Use This Calculator
Enter your income, filing status, and any deductions. The calculator computes your Virginia state income tax alongside your federal tax, showing exactly how much goes to each and what you take home.
The most useful thing to try? Compare different income levels to see how Virginia's brackets affect your tax bill, then look at how combined federal + state taxes shape your total take-home pay.
Here's what each field means:
Annual Income is your total earnings before any taxes. Include wages, freelance income, investment income, and any other sources.
Filing Status determines which set of tax brackets and deductions apply. Virginia uses filing statuses similar to the federal system — single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, and head of household.
Virginia Income Tax: What You Need to Know
Virginia uses a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. Like the federal system, this means your income is taxed in layers — each bracket only applies to the income within that range, not your entire income.
Virginia Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $3,000 | 2% |
| $3,000 - $5,000 | 3% |
| $5,000 - $17,000 | 5% |
| $17,000+ | 5.75% |
A Real Example
Let's say you're a single filer earning $75,000 in Virginia. After applying the standard deduction of $8,000, your income flows through each bracket:
Your approximate Virginia state income tax would be around $3,565, for an effective state tax rate of about 4.8%.
Remember, this is just the state portion. You'll also owe federal income tax and FICA taxes on top of this.
Deductions and Exemptions
Standard Deduction: Virginia offers a standard deduction of $8,000 for single filers and $16,000 for married couples filing jointly.
Virginia standard deduction ($8,000 single / $16,000 MFJ), personal exemptions ($930 per person), age deduction for 65+ ($12,000 per person). Virginia also offers a low-income tax credit, a credit for taxes paid to other states, and various education-related credits.
Local Taxes
No separate local income taxes, but Virginia has some unique local taxes. Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads, and Central Virginia regions have additional transportation-related taxes and fees.
What's Unique About Virginia
Virginia has four brackets, but the top 5.75% rate kicks in at just $17,000 of taxable income — meaning virtually every working Virginian pays the top marginal rate on most of their earnings. The lower brackets provide minimal relief (only saving $287.50 total compared to a flat 5.75% rate). Virginia has its own standard deduction ($8,000 single / $16,000 MFJ) and personal exemptions of $930 per person. The state does not tax Social Security benefits and offers an age deduction for those 65+ (up to $12,000 per person).
Recent Changes
Virginia increased its standard deduction significantly in 2022 (from $4,500 to $8,000 for single filers). The state has been debating further tax cuts in recent legislative sessions.
How to Use This Calculator Strategically
Model a raise or job change. See how additional income moves through Virginia's brackets and affects your effective tax rate.
Compare filing statuses. If you're married, run the numbers both jointly and separately. The better option depends on your specific income situation.
Plan your deductions. Test how maximizing retirement contributions or other deductions affects your Virginia tax bill.
Evaluate a move. Compare Virginia's rates to other states you're considering. The difference in take-home pay might surprise you.
References
- Virginia Department of Taxation. (2025). Individual Income Tax.
This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax or financial advice. Tax rates, brackets, and rules change regularly. Consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.