How to File Your Virginia Tax Return for 2019: Step-by-Step Guide for Individuals and Small Businesses

Filing your Virginia tax return for 2019 may seem daunting, especially if it’s your first time handling your taxes. This guide walks you through the entire process in a clear, beginner-friendly way so you can confidently prepare, file, and submit your state return. Whether you are an individual, a small business owner, or filing jointly with your family, understanding the correct forms, deadlines, and requirements will help you avoid mistakes and keep the process hassle-free.

Virginia’s individual income tax system for 2019 has specific rules, filing thresholds, and deductions you should know before you start. From choosing the correct filing status to determining which deductions you qualify for, being informed will help you make better decisions. Using reliable tax preparation software or professional services can save you time, provide audit support, and help you maximize your refund.

In this article, we’ll cover each step, from gathering tax information to e-file submission or mailing your forms, so that you can move through tax season efficiently. You’ll also learn about payment options, direct deposit for the fastest way to receive your refund, and how to handle amended returns if needed. This simple process will guide you to complete your return accurately and on time.

Overview of Virginia State Income Tax for 2019

Understanding the Virginia tax return process begins with knowing who must file, the applicable deadlines, and the changes that took effect for the 2019 tax year. For residents, part-year residents, and certain nonresidents, meeting the filing requirements ensures compliance, avoids penalties, and can help you secure your refund faster. Being aware of these rules early in tax season allows you to prepare the correct forms, confirm your filing status, and avoid last-minute errors.

Who Must File

You are required to file a Virginia state return for 2019 if your Virginia adjusted gross income (VAGI) meets or exceeds the following thresholds:

Single: You must file if your annual VAGI is $11,950.
Married filing jointly: You must file if your combined VAGI is $23,900 or more.
Married filing separately: You must file if your individual VAGI is $11,950 or more.
Even if you owe no taxes, meeting these income thresholds requires you to submit a return. Filing ensures your income is reported correctly and allows you to claim any refund owed to you.

Filing Deadlines

Calendar year filers must submit their state return by May 1, 2020, to avoid late filing penalties.
Fiscal year filers must submit their returns by the 15th day of the fourth month after the end of the fiscal year.
All taxpayers are granted an automatic six-month extension without needing an application. However, all tax owed must still be paid by the original due date to avoid interest and penalties.
Overseas and military taxpayers can file until July 1, 2020, providing additional time for those outside the United States.

Key Changes from 2018

Several updates to Virginia’s individual income tax rules for 2019 may affect how you prepare your return:

The federal conformity date has been updated to December 31, 2019, meaning Virginia aligns its tax rules with federal tax law as of that date.
The standard deduction increased to $4,500 for single or married filing separately and $9,000 for married filing jointly, potentially reducing taxable income for many taxpayers.
A property tax deduction is now available for certain real and personal property taxes not deducted on the federal return due to the $10,000 state and local tax (SALT) cap.
A business interest deduction allows taxpayers to deduct 20 percent of the disallowed business interest owed for federal purposes.
A new subtraction for eminent domain gains lets taxpayers exclude certain income from property taken by condemnation.
Tax credit changes include repealing the telework expenses credit and introducing a new worker training tax credit, which can benefit qualifying businesses.

Understanding these requirements and changes before you begin preparing your return can help you make informed decisions, take advantage of all available deductions and credits, and work toward securing the maximum refund you are entitled to.

Choosing the Correct Virginia Tax Form

Selecting the proper form for your Virginia tax return is essential to ensure your filing is accurate and processed without delays. Your form depends on your residency status, income sources, and specific filing situation. Using the wrong form can cause processing delays, requests for additional tax information, or even the need to file amended returns.

Main Individual Income Tax Forms

Form 760 (Resident Return) should be used if you were a Virginia resident for the entire tax year and meet the income threshold required to file.
Form 760PY (Part-Year Resident Return) should be used if you moved into or out of Virginia during 2019. This form allows you to report income earned while living in Virginia.
Form 763 (Nonresident Return) should be used if you were not a Virginia resident but earned income from Virginia sources.
Form 763-S (Nonresident Claim for Individual Income Tax Withheld) should be used if you are a nonresident requesting a refund for Virginia tax withheld on certain income, such as wages or investment earnings.

Standard Schedules and Additional Forms

Schedule ADJ reports additions, subtractions, and deductions that adjust your Virginia adjusted gross income.
Schedule CR is used to claim tax credits, such as the Worker Training Tax Credit or Green Jobs Creation Tax Credit.
Schedule OSC is used if you paid taxes to another state and claimed a credit to avoid double taxation.
Schedule VAC is used to make voluntary contributions to specific Virginia programs.
Form 760IP makes extension payments when you need more time to file but still owe tax.

Forms for Small Business Owners

Sole proprietors file Form 760 along with Schedule ADJ to report business income.
Partnership members or LLC owners include income from their federal Schedule K-1 on Form 760, while the business files Form 502.
S corporation shareholders include their share of business income on Form 760, while the S corporation files Form 502.
C corporations file a separate corporate income tax return using Form 500 and do not include business income on an individual return.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Complete Your Return

Preparing your Virginia tax return involves gathering the proper documents, filling in each section accurately, and ensuring all required forms are included. Following these steps can help make the entire process efficient and reduce the chance of a mistake that could delay your refund.

Gather Required Documents

Before you begin, collect all tax information you will need:

Your completed federal income tax return provides the starting point for your Virginia return.
All W-2, 1099, and VK-1 forms showing Virginia income and withholding.
Schedule ADJ if you have additions, subtractions, or deductions to report.
Schedule OSC if you are claiming a credit for taxes paid to another state.
Schedule CR if you are claiming any Virginia tax credits.
Schedule VAC if you plan to make voluntary contributions.
Supporting documentation for deductions such as mortgage interest, property taxes, or charitable contributions.

Completing Form 760 (Resident Return)

Enter your personal information, including your name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, locality code, and filing status.
Claim exemptions for yourself, your spouse, and dependents.
Calculate your Virginia adjusted gross income (VAGI) by starting with your federal adjusted gross income, adding any required additions, and subtracting eligible deductions.
Choose your standard or itemized deductions based on which option most lowers your taxable income.
Determine your Virginia taxable income by subtracting deductions and exemptions from your VAGI.
Calculate your tax using Virginia’s tax tables or rate schedules.
Apply any eligible credits from Schedule CR or other credit forms.
Enter your payments and withholdings from W-2s, 1099s, and VK-1s.
Determine your refund or amount owed by subtracting total payments from tax due.
Sign and date the return before submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Filing with the wrong form for your residency status.
Entering incorrect Social Security numbers for yourself or dependents.
Forgetting to attach required schedules or documentation.
Using federal deduction amounts instead of Virginia-specific amounts.
Omitting signatures or dates on paper returns.
Sending the return to the wrong mailing address if filing by mail.

How to File Your Virginia Tax Return

Once your Virginia tax return is complete, you can choose several filing options. The right method depends on your preference for speed, cost, and convenience. Selecting the most efficient method can help you access your refund sooner and avoid processing delays.

e-File Options

Electronic filing is the fastest way to file taxes and receive your refund, especially if you choose direct deposit to your financial institution. Many tax preparation software providers offer e-file options for Virginia state returns. E-filing reduces the risk of calculation mistakes and ensures faster confirmation that your return was received.

Free File Options

You may qualify for Virginia’s Free File program if you meet certain income or eligibility requirements. In 2019, several providers, such as FreeTaxUSA and TaxSlayer, offered free state return filing for those with income below specific limits or for active-duty military personnel. The Virginia Tax home page lists current Free File providers and eligibility rules each tax season.

Paid e-File Options

If you do not qualify for free filing, use paid tax preparation software or hire a tax professional. Paid options may offer additional services such as audit support, expert help from tax experts, and guidance to help you maximize your refund.

Paper Filing

You can print forms from the Virginia Tax website or request them by phone if you prefer a paper return. Be sure to sign and date your return, include all required schedules, and use the correct mailing address based on whether you owe money or expect a refund. Paper filing takes longer to process, so consider e-filing if you are filing close to the due date.

How to Make a Payment

Once you have completed your Virginia tax return and determined you owe taxes, you have several options for submitting your payment. Choosing the correct payment method can help you avoid penalties, meet the due date, and keep the process simple.

Online Payment Options

You can use eForms on the Virginia Tax website to make a secure payment without creating an account. This option is convenient if you only need to make a one-time payment.
Creating an Individual Online Services account allows you to manage your tax information, make payments, and track your account history in one place.
You may pay using a credit or debit card. The payment processor will add convenience.
An ACH credit allows you to send payment directly from your bank’s bill payment system to the Virginia Department of Taxation, which can be efficient if your financial institution offers this service.

Check or Money Order

Make your check or money order payable to the Virginia Department of Taxation.
To ensure your payment is applied correctly, include your Social Security number and “2019 Form 760” on the memo line.
If you are paying separately from your return, include the Form 760-V payment voucher with your payment.
Use the correct mailing address based on whether you owe money or are filing with your return.

Payment Deadlines

All taxes owed for 2019 must be paid by May 1, 2020, even if you are filing under the automatic six-month extension.
If you cannot pay in full, you may request a payment plan through the Virginia Department of Taxation by phone or online. This can help you avoid the more serious consequences of unpaid taxes, although interest and penalties may still apply.

Tracking Your Refund or Balance Due

After you file your Virginia tax return, you can easily check the status of your refund or confirm any balance due. Staying informed about your return’s progress can help you plan your finances and catch any problems early.

How to Check Your Refund Status

The fastest way to check your refund is to use the Where’s My Refund tool on the Virginia Tax website. You will need your Social Security number and the exact refund amount.
You can also call the automated refund system at 804.367.2486, available 24/7, to get an update by phone.

Typical Processing Times

Electronically filed returns are generally processed within four weeks, so e-filing with direct deposit is the fastest way to get your money.
Paper returns may take up to eight weeks, and those sent by certified mail can require an additional three weeks for delivery and handling.

Reasons for Refund Delays

Your return may be selected for identity verification, requiring additional documentation.
Missing information or calculation errors may slow processing.
A portion of your refund may be used to pay outstanding debts to the state or other agencies.
Incorrect direct deposit information can require the issuance of a paper check.

Final Filing Checklist

Reviewing your Virginia tax return before you submit it helps prevent delays, reduce the risk of mistakes, and ensure you have claimed all deductions and credits available. Use this checklist to make sure your return is complete.

Verify that you are using the correct form for your residency status.
Attach all W-2, 1099, and VK-1 forms showing Virginia income and withholding.
Include Schedule ADJ if you have additions, subtractions, or deductions.
Include Schedule CR if you are claiming any tax credits.
Include Schedule OSC if you are claiming a credit for taxes paid to another state.
Provide all supporting documentation for deductions such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and charitable contributions.
Choose your payment method and include Form 760-V if paying separately.
Provide accurate direct deposit information if expecting a refund.
Sign and date your return before submission.
Use the correct mailing address if filing by paper.
Keep a copy of your complete return and all attachments for your records for several years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I missed the Virginia tax return deadline for 2019?

If you missed the filing date for your Virginia tax return, you should still file as soon as possible. Virginia provides an automatic six-month extension for tax filing, but this does not extend the time to pay. Any taxes owed must be paid by the original due date to avoid penalties and interest. Filing promptly helps limit costs and protects future refund opportunities.

Can I use tax preparation software to e-file my Virginia tax return for free?

Many taxpayers qualify to e-file their Virginia tax return for free through the state’s Free File program. Eligibility is based on income, military status, or other factors. Approved tax preparation software providers are listed on the Virginia Tax home page. These services can streamline the entire process and are often the fastest way to submit your state return.

What deductions should I look for when filing taxes in Virginia?

When filing taxes, do not overlook deductions such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and contributions to Virginia529 accounts. Certain subtractions, like the business interest deduction or charitable mileage, can also reduce your income tax. Carefully reviewing the instructions for your forms can help you determine eligibility and ensure you claim all deductions to work toward a maximum refund.

How do I get a filing extension for my state return?

Virginia automatically grants an extension of up to six months for filing your state return. No application is required, but at least 90 percent of your total income tax owed must be paid by the original deadline to avoid interest and penalties. You can make extension payments online or by mailing Form 760IP with your payment to the Virginia Department of Taxation.

Can I file jointly if I lived in Virginia for only part of 2019?

If you lived in Virginia for only part of the year, you may still be able to file jointly, depending on your spouse’s residency and income sources. The part-year resident return allows you to report only the Virginia portion of your income. Reviewing the filing status rules or using expert help from tax experts can help you determine the best approach for your situation.

What credits can help small business owners reduce taxes?

Virginia offers several tax credits for small business owners to lower their state tax liability. These include the Worker Training Tax Credit, the Green Jobs Creation Tax Credit, and credits for research and development. You can claim these credits by completing Schedule CR and attaching it to your return. Proper documentation is essential to avoid mistakes and delays in processing.

How do I submit amended returns for Virginia?

To submit amended returns for Virginia, complete a new Form 760 with the corrected details and check the box indicating an amended return. Include any updated IRS forms, revised calculations, and supporting documents. Mail the completed return to the address listed in the instructions. This simple process ensures accurate updates to your tax information and speeds up any refund adjustments.

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