Essential Guide to Filing Your Virginia Tax Return for 2024

Filing your Virginia tax return for the 2024 tax year doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re filing as an individual, a couple, or a small business owner, this guide provides step-by-step instructions to simplify the process. It’s designed for taxpayers unfamiliar with Virginia’s tax laws or the forms required by the Internal Revenue Service, ensuring that even first-time filers can navigate confidently.

The deadline for filing Virginia individual income tax returns is May 1, 2025. State residents—including single filers, joint filers, and sole proprietors—must meet certain income thresholds to be required to file. Knowing your filing status, standard deduction, and applicable exemptions will help you calculate your tax accurately, avoid costly errors, and meet state requirements without delays or penalties.

This article explains which forms to use, how to file online or by mail, and what resources are available through the Commonwealth of Virginia. It also outlines recent changes in state tax law, including tax cuts that may affect your return. Additionally, we’ll cover how residency status—whether full-year, part-year, or nonresident with Virginia-sourced income—impacts your filing obligations.

Who is required to file a Virginia tax return?

Full-Year Residents Must File If:

You were a legal resident of Virginia the entire calendar year of 2024.
You were required to file a federal income tax return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or
Your federal adjusted gross income (FAGI) exceeds the following thresholds. If you are unmarried, you must file if your FAGI is more than $11,950.
- If you are a married couple filing jointly, you must file if your combined FAGI is over $23,900.
- If you are married but filing separately, you must file if your individual FAGI is more than $11,950.

These income thresholds apply to the 2024 tax year. They may be adjusted in future years due to inflation or changes in the revenue procedures issued by federal or Virginia tax authorities.

Part-Year Residents and Nonresidents Must File If:

You earned income from Virginia sources during any portion of 2024, even if you only lived in another state for part of the year.
You must file a federal income tax return for the same year.

This category includes individuals who moved into or out of Virginia during 2024. It also applies to nonresidents who worked in Virginia, operated a business in the state, or owned income-generating property such as rental real estate. You must file a return if your Virginia-source income exceeds the filing thresholds.

If you are uncertain about your residency classification, the Virginia Department of Taxation provides online resources to help you determine whether you are considered a full-year, part-year, or nonresident. Knowing your correct residency status ensures you select the proper forms and properly apply deductions and exemptions when filing.

Understanding Virginia Income Tax Rates and Deductions

Virginia uses a progressive income tax system, which means your income is taxed in segments at different rates. This structure remains unchanged for the 2024 tax year. Knowing which bracket your taxable income falls into helps you estimate your income tax and plan accordingly.

Virginia Income Tax Rates for 2024

For the 2024 tax year, the following tax rates apply to taxable income (your income after deductions and exemptions):

If your taxable income is up to $3,000, you will pay 2%.
If your taxable income is between $3,001 and $5,000, it is taxed at 3%.
Income from $5,001 to $17,000 is taxed at a 5% rate.
Any taxable income over $17,000 is taxed at the top marginal rate of 5.75%.

Married couples filing jointly must combine their income and apply the tax rates to the total. Unmarried and married individuals filing separately should calculate their tax based on their earnings.

Standard Deduction and Personal Exemptions

Virginia increased the standard deduction for 2024, which reduces the amount of income subject to tax:

Single filers and married individuals filing separately can claim a standard deduction of $8,500.
Married couples filing jointly can claim a standard deduction of $17,000.

If you itemize deductions on your federal return, you may also itemize on your Virginia return using Schedule A. Otherwise, you should take the standard deduction, which is often more straightforward and beneficial for most households.

Additionally, taxpayers can claim a personal exemption of $930 for themselves and each qualifying dependent. This exemption further lowers your taxable income and can make a noticeable difference in your final tax bill.

Updates to Virginia Tax Laws

Several changes to Virginia tax laws affect the 2024 filing season:

The business interest deduction has been increased to 50%, up from 30% in previous years, giving small business owners and self-employed individuals a larger potential tax break.
Starting July 1, 2024, all new businesses must complete electronic registration through the Virginia Department of Taxation’s online system.
Virginia’s updates reflect some alignment with federal legislation, such as the Jobs Act, with adjustments made to accommodate inflation and economic conditions.

Understanding these changes can help you maximize your deductions and avoid errors when completing your Virginia tax return.

Forms You Need to File Your Virginia Tax Return

Filing your Virginia tax return begins with selecting the correct forms based on your residency status, income type, and whether you qualify for deductions or tax credits. The Virginia Department of Taxation provides different forms for individuals and businesses.

Forms for Individual Filers

If you were a full-year resident of Virginia in 2024, you should file your return using Form 760, the standard individual income tax form.
If you lived in Virginia for part of the year—either because you moved into or out of the state—you must file using Form 760PY, designed for part-year residents.
If you lived outside Virginia for the entire year but earned income from Virginia sources, you are considered a nonresident and must use Form 763.
If you request Virginia’s automatic six-month extension to file but still need to make a payment by May 1, you must include Form 760IP along with your payment.

Standard Schedules and Credit Forms

You must complete Schedule ADJ if you have income adjustments that differ between federal and Virginia tax rules, such as additions or subtractions not recognized by the IRS.
Use Schedule A if you plan to itemize deductions rather than take the standard deduction; this includes mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical expenses.
If you qualify for any tax credits—such as the credit for taxes paid to another state—you must file Schedule CR to calculate and claim them.
Taxpayers who pay income tax in another state and avoid double taxation must also submit Schedule OSC, which calculates Virginia’s credit for out-of-state tax paid.

Forms for Sole Proprietors and Small Businesses

Suppose you’re a sole proprietor or single-member LLC. In that case, you will report your business income on Schedule C of your federal return, which carries over into your Virginia tax filing through Form 760.
If you haven’t registered your business with the state, you must complete Form R-1, Virginia’s official business registration form.
If you operate a partnership, S corporation, or multi-member LLC, and your entity earns income in Virginia, you may need to file Form 765 to report and pay applicable taxes.

To ensure you're using the most current versions of all forms, visit the Virginia Department of Taxation’s website. Its header features the branding bar, cardinal logo, and close branding bar icon for easy navigation.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing Your Return

Before completing your Virginia tax return, gather all the necessary documents and information. Doing this up front will help you avoid errors and filing delays.

What You Need Before You Start

Collect all W-2 forms from your employers and any 1099 (such as 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC) that reports freelance, contract, or investment income.
Have your completed federal tax return (Form 1040) on hand. Many figures from your Virginia return are based on the information in your federal return.
Gather documentation for deductions you may claim, such as receipts for charitable donations, mortgage interest statements, or health care expenses.
Verify that you have the correct Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse (if filing jointly), and all dependents.
Have your bank routing and account numbers ready if you want your refund deposited directly into your account.

Completing Form 760 (Resident Return)

Select the filing status matching your federal return, such as Single, Head of Household, or Married Filing Jointly.
On Line 1, enter your Federal Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), which can be found on Line 11 of your federal Form 1040.
Use Schedule ADJ to complete Lines 2 and 3, which include any additions or subtractions specific to Virginia tax law.
Calculate your Virginia Adjusted Gross Income by combining Lines 1 and 2, then subtracting Line 3.
Choose between taking the standard deduction or itemizing using Schedule A and enter the result on Line 5.
Refer to the Virginia tax tables to compute your taxable income and tax liability, and enter those on Lines 8 through 10.
If you qualify for credits, such as education or energy-related credits, enter them on Line 11 using amounts from Schedule CR.
Add up all Virginia tax withheld from your W-2s and 1099s and report it on Lines 15 and 16.
If you made estimated tax payments during the year, include those on Lines 17 through 19.
Complete the rest of the form to determine whether you’re due a refund or owe additional taxes, and make sure to sign and date the return.

For Sole Proprietors and Self-Employed Filers

If you're self-employed, your income and expenses should first be reported on Schedule C of your federal return.
The net income from Schedule C becomes part of your federal AGI, which carries over to your Virginia Form 760.
If you had employees, verify that you filed all required Virginia tax forms for withholding and made timely payments.
Review Schedule CR to see if you qualify for any business-related tax credits, such as those for emergency preparedness supplies or investments in qualifying zones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Double-check that all Social Security numbers are accurate and complete.
Carefully review all math calculations to avoid errors in your totals.
Ensure the return is signed and dated, especially if you file jointly.
Don’t forget to attach W-2s, 1099s, and any other supporting documents if you are filing by mail.
Use the correct tax form based on your residency status—Form 760, 760PY, or 763.

How to File Your Virginia Tax Return

Virginia offers several filing options to meet different taxpayer needs. While electronic filing is strongly encouraged due to its speed and accuracy, paper filing remains an option for those who prefer a manual process.

Electronic Filing Options

If your federal adjusted gross income is $32,000 or less, you may qualify for Virginia Free File, which allows you to file your federal and state tax returns at no cost through approved online providers.
Regardless of income level, all taxpayers may use Virginia Free Fillable Forms to complete and submit their tax returns electronically through the state’s online portal.
You may also file using commercial tax software such as TurboTax, H&R Block, or T. Many offer built-in checks for common filing errors.
Hiring a tax professional is another option. They can prepare your return, help you maximize deductions, and file it electronically on your behalf.

Electronic filing is typically processed within two to four weeks and offers several benefits, including immediate confirmation of receipt, quicker refunds, and fewer errors due to automated calculations.

Paper Filing Instructions

Download the correct forms from the Virginia Department of Taxation website to file by mail.
Print all forms using black or blue ink, and complete each field legibly.
Be sure to attach all W-2s, 1099s, and supporting schedules, including Schedule A, ADJ, or CR, if applicable.
Don’t forget to sign and date the return before mailing.

Send your completed return to the correct address, depending on your filing situation:

If you are due a refund, mail your return to:
P.O. Box 1498, Richmond, VA 23218-1498
If you owe a payment, use this address:
P.O. Box 760, Richmond, VA 23218-0760
If you have no balance due or refund, mail it to:
P.O. Box 1498, Richmond, VA 23218-1498

Consider using certified mail or another tracking service to ensure your return is delivered and processed on time. Always keep a complete copy of your tax return for your records.

How to Make a Payment If You Owe Taxes

If you owe income tax to the Commonwealth of Virginia for the 2024 tax year, you have several secure and convenient options to make your payment. Paying on time—even if you can’t pay the full amount—is essential to reduce penalties and interest.

Online Payment Options

You can make a direct bank payment (ACH) through the Virginia Department of Taxation’s online portal. This method lets you pay without fees directly from your checking or savings account.
You also have the option to pay with a credit or debit card, either online or by phone. Note that this method includes a convenience fee of approximately 2.5% of the total payment amount.

Mailing a Payment by Check or Money Order

If you pay by mail, make your check or money order payable to “Virginia Department of Taxation.”
To apply your payment correctly, write your security number and “2024 Form 760” in the memo line. To submit a payment separately from your return, include Form 760PMT and the voucher.

Extension Payments

If you’re using Virginia’s automatic 6-month extension to file but owe taxes, submit your payment by May 1, 2025, using Form 760IP. This avoids late payment penalties, even if your full return isn’t ready yet.

Deadlines and Penalties

You must pay at least 90% of your tax liability by May 1, 2025, to avoid penalties and interest.
The late payment penalty is 6% per month, up to 30% of the unpaid tax.
Interest accrues daily based on the federal interest rate plus 2%.

If you cannot pay your full tax bill, you should still file your return and pay as much as possible. You may request a payment plan to cover the remaining balance over time.

How to Track Your Refund or Balance Due

After filing your Virginia tax return, you can track the status of your refund or verify any remaining balance due using tools provided by the Virginia Department of Taxation.

Online Refund Status Tool

Use the "Where's My Refund" tool on the Virginia Tax website to check the status of your refund 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
To use this tool, you’ll need your Social Security number and expected refund amount as listed on your return.

Phone-Based Refund Check

You can also check your refund status by calling the automated phone system at 804-367-2486. This system is available 24/7 and provides the same information as the online tool.

Expected Processing Times

If you filed your return electronically, your refund is typically processed within 4 weeks.
If you filed a paper return, it may take up to 8 weeks to receive your refund.
If you mailed your return via certified mail, allow an additional 3 weeks for delivery and processing.

Possible Delays

Math errors, incomplete information, or identity verification checks may cause refund delays.
Returns with outstanding debts (such as past-due state taxes or child support) may also result in reduced or withheld refunds.

If more than 8 weeks have passed since you e-filed—or 12 weeks since mailing a paper return—you can contact Virginia Tax directly at 804-367-8031 for assistance.

Final Filing Checklist

Before submitting your return, use this checklist to ensure your Virginia tax return is accurate, complete, and ready for processing. A few simple checks can help you avoid common errors and delays.

Before Preparing Your Return

Ensure you’ve collected all W-2s, 1099s, and other income documentation.
Confirm that you’ve recorded and organized deductions and credit-related expenses, such as donations or education costs.
Verify Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse (if applicable), and all dependents.
Ensure you have completed or reviewed your federal tax return, as many figures on your Virginia return come directly from it.

Return Completion and Review

Choose the correct form—Form 760, 760PY, or 763—based on your residency status.
Verify that your filing status matches the one used on your federal return.
Double-check that you’ve included your Federal Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from Form 1040, Line 11.
Complete any required schedules, such as Schedule ADJ (adjustments), Schedule A (itemized deductions), or Schedule CR (credits).
Confirm that you’ve included all Virginia withholding amounts from W-2s and 1099s.
Review all math calculations for accuracy.
If requesting a refund, verify that your bank routing and account numbers are correct for direct deposit.

Paper Filing Reminders

Sign and date your return—both spouses must sign if filing jointly.
Attach copies of all W-2s, 1099s, and supporting schedules correctly.
Address the envelope properly and apply adequate postage.
Consider using certified mail for proof of timely filing.

Recordkeeping

Keep a complete copy of your return and supporting documents for at least 3 years from the date you filed, or 2 years from the date you paid the tax—whichever is later.
For property-related records, retain documentation for the entire time you own the asset, plus 3 years after sale or disposal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs to file a Virginia tax return for the 2024 tax year?

Taxpayers must file a Virginia tax return if their income exceeds Virginia’s income thresholds or if they’re required to file a federal return with the Internal Revenue Service. This includes unmarried individuals, married couples filing jointly, and households with Virginia-source income. Income thresholds vary by filing status and may be adjusted annually based on inflation or state or federal tax law changes.

What is the Virginia sales tax holiday, and what items qualify?

The Virginia sales tax holiday is a limited-time event allowing taxpayers to avoid paying state sales tax on qualifying school supplies, certain Energy Star products, and emergency preparedness supplies. It’s designed to support households and businesses in preparing for back-to-school and severe weather seasons. The official Virginia Tax website updates details about qualifying items under the Commonwealth of Virginia branding each tax year.

Do I need to pay state sales tax on online purchases in Virginia?

Yes, most online purchases are subject to sales tax in Virginia. Paying state sales tax applies to both in-store and remote sales, and businesses must collect it based on local tax laws. Taxpayers should ensure proper reporting, especially if sellers do not automatically collect it. Virginia tax laws continue evolving to align with federal provisions such as the Jobs Act, affecting how digital goods and services are taxed.

Have any new Virginia tax laws been introduced for the 2024 tax year?

In the 2024 tax year, several new Virginia tax laws went into effect. These include an increase in the standard deduction and adjustments to business deductions under Virginia's revenue procedure updates. The state also adopted new provisions regarding electronic filing and business registration. These changes reflect tax cuts and inflation-related updates to simplify compliance for individual income tax and small businesses.

How do standard deduction and personal exemption amounts affect my Virginia return?

The standard deduction reduces taxable income and is available to most taxpayers unless they itemize. For 2024, it increased to help offset inflation. You may also claim a personal exemption for yourself and each dependent. These amounts are built into Virginia’s income tax calculations and vary for unmarried individuals, married individuals, and married couples filing jointly. Using the correct exemption and deduction can lower your Virginia income tax liability.

How do I qualify for maximum credit or exemptions on my return?

To qualify for the maximum credit or exemption amounts, taxpayers must meet specific criteria outlined in Virginia tax laws. This can include income thresholds, filing status, and eligible expenses like childcare or qualifying school supplies. Forms such as Schedule CR and Form 760 help determine eligibility. Updates to the revenue procedure or inflation adjustments may also impact how credits and exemptions apply in a given tax year.

Where can I access official forms and resources to help me file?

The Virginia Department of Taxation website offers all official Virginia tax forms and filing resources. This site features the Virginia branding bar, cardinal, and close branding bar icons for consistent state identification. Taxpayers can download forms, review instructions, and access filing tools. The website also updates local tax laws, the current tax year’s guidance, and support for individual and business filers across the commonwealth.