I am a graduate student living full time out-of-state (in VA). However, my license & registration is in my home state (WV). What do I put for my state of residence?

I lived full time in Virginia in 2016 and made all income in VA. However, I am from WV and my license and car registration are in WV (my parents' address). I consider Virginia my home but have not yet transferred items like my car registration over yet. What do I claim as my state of residence on my taxes?

ToddL
New Member

State tax filing

If you consider VA as your home now, lived there all year and only had VA income, then you are probably a VA resident.

What makes you a resident of a state (or country)? 

Generally, you're a resident of a state (or country) if you intend to either stay there permanently, or return there after a temporary absence. It's where home is – where you come back to after being away on vacation, business trip, overseas or out-of-state employment, or school. Many factors are considered, not the least of which are where you are registered to vote, own homestead property and are licensed to drive.

Residency rules vary from state to state. For example, if you spend more than a certain number of days in some states, you're considered a resident whether it makes sense to you or not. If you have any concerns, check with your State Department of Revenue for specific residency rules, especially as they apply to your particular situation. 

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