Turo Host Taxes in West Virginia - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Turo Hosts in West Virginia

With the Mountain State’s scenic byways and growing tourism, renting out a vehicle on Turo presents a unique income opportunity for West Virginia residents. However, alongside the rewards comes the responsibility of accurate tax reporting.

As a Turo host, earnings are considered self-employment income and must be reported to the IRS. This means filing a Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) with Form 1040. Crucially, this income is also subject to self-employment tax, covering both Social Security and Medicare contributions, which are not automatically withheld by Turo. Proper record-keeping throughout the year is essential to maximize deductions and ensure compliance.

How West Virginia Handles Gig Worker Taxes

As a resident of West Virginia, a state income tax return is required, regardless of income level. West Virginia operates on a graduated income tax system, meaning the tax rate increases as your income rises. For the 2025 tax year, West Virginia utilizes several tax brackets, and the specific rates will be determined by the state legislature. It's important to stay updated on any changes to these rates. Self-employment income reported on your federal Schedule C must also be reported on the West Virginia state income tax return. The primary form for self-employed individuals to report income and calculate tax liability is Form WV-140, West Virginia Resident Income Tax Return. This form requires you to calculate your adjusted gross income (AGI) and then apply the appropriate tax rates based on your filing status and income level. West Virginia also allows for certain deductions and credits that may reduce your overall tax burden. Accurate reporting of your Turo income is vital to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with state tax laws. You can find more information and access the necessary forms on the West Virginia State Tax Department website: https://tax.wv.gov/. Remember to keep detailed records of all income and expenses related to your Turo hosting activity to support your state tax filing.

Top Tax Deductions for West Virginia Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The #1 deduction for many Turo hosts. The 2025 rate is 70 cents per mile. Given West Virginia’s often-rural terrain and the need to travel to meet renters, this rate can significantly reduce your taxable income.
• Tolls & Parking: While West Virginia doesn’t have extensive toll road systems, any tolls incurred while preparing a vehicle for rental or during renter pick-up/drop-off are deductible. Parking fees related to business use are also deductible.
• Phone & Data Plan: If you use your phone for Turo-related communication (scheduling, renter questions, etc.), you can deduct the percentage of your monthly bill attributable to business use.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car wash supplies to keep your vehicle presentable for renters, phone mounts for navigation, or even small amenities offered to renters are deductible business expenses.

Key Warning: You cannot deduct both the standard mileage rate and actual car expenses like gas or repairs in the same year. Choose the method that yields the greater deduction.

Understanding the 15.3% Self-Employment Tax

This tax covers both Social Security and Medicare taxes. Unlike traditional employment where these taxes are withheld from your paycheck, as a self-employed individual, you are responsible for paying both the employer and employee portions. Turo does not withhold these taxes from your earnings, so it’s crucial to plan for this liability throughout the year, potentially making estimated tax payments quarterly to avoid penalties.