Powerball Payout Calculator West Virginia
West Virginia taxes lottery winnings at 4.82% on top of federal tax. West Virginia's top income tax rate (about 4.82% after recent cuts) applies; 6.5% may be withheld up front. (as of Jan 2026)
Calculate your exact West Virginia payout →Example: what a jackpot is worth in West Virginia
After-tax estimates using 4.82% state tax, the 2026 federal brackets (24% withheld up front, 37% top rate), and a lump sum cash value of 47% of the advertised jackpot.
| Advertised jackpot | Lump sum net | Annuity net (30-yr total) | First annuity payment (net) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100M | $27,388,643 | $59,501,282 | $919,735 |
| $500M | $136,767,043 | $292,221,282 | $4,422,505 |
| $1B | $273,490,043 | $583,121,282 | $8,800,968 |
How West Virginia compares
Eleven jurisdictions take no state tax on lottery wins (including Texas, Florida, and California). Among states that do tax, rates run from 2.5% (North Dakota, Arizona) to 10.9% (New York). See the full 51-state comparison table or read lump sum vs annuity: which to take.
West Virginia lottery tax FAQ
How much tax does West Virginia take from lottery winnings?
West Virginia's top income tax rate (about 4.82% after recent cuts) applies; 6.5% may be withheld up front.
What would I actually take home from a $500 million jackpot in West Virginia?
Taking the lump sum (cash value about 47% of the jackpot), you would clear roughly $136,767,043 after federal and state taxes. Taking the 30-year annuity, the after-tax total is roughly $292,221,282, paid in 30 growing installments.
Is the federal tax the same in West Virginia as everywhere else?
Yes. Federal treatment is identical nationwide: 24% is withheld on prizes over $5,000, and jackpot-size winnings reach the 37% top bracket (income above $640,600 for a single filer in 2026), so the remainder is due when you file.
Do I pay West Virginia tax if I bought the ticket somewhere else?
State withholding follows the state of purchase. If you live in West Virginia but bought the winning ticket in another state, that state withholds first — West Virginia then taxes you as a resident with a credit for tax paid there (rules vary; confirm with a tax professional).