Whether you live in Manassas, Woodbridge, Fairfax, or anywhere else in Northern Virginia — or reside in Maryland or DC but work across state lines — the overlapping tax rules of VA, MD, and DC can feel like a trap. It’s easy to overpay, withhold incorrectly, or file the wrong returns — and by year’s end, you’re left wondering: “Did I really need to pay all that twice?”
We get it. At Brown, Mobley & Way PC, we’re not just CPAs — we’re your neighbors in Northern VA who understand the day-to-day commute, the W‑2 headaches, and the dread of tax season.
Why Commuter Taxes in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) Are So Confusing
- Wages earned in one jurisdiction while residing in another
- Different rules depending on the type of income (wages vs. business vs. rental)
- Required forms (non-resident certifications) that can easily be missed
- Withholding errors leading to surprise tax bills, refund delays, or penalties
For many, DIY tax software doesn’t catch these complications — and that’s where a local expert makes all the difference.
How Residency & Reciprocity Work — State by State
Virginia Residents Working in DC or Maryland
If you live in Manassas or elsewhere in Virginia and commute to DC for a salary job, you benefit from the VA–DC reciprocity agreement. As long as you submit a non-resident exemption certificate (Form VA‑4) to your employer, only Virginia income tax should be withheld. DC should not tax your wages.
Working in Maryland is more complex. Maryland may tax income earned within the state while Virginia taxes all income as your resident state, potentially creating a double-tax scenario unless properly managed.
Maryland Residents Working in DC or Virginia
Most Maryland residents commuting into DC only need to file a Maryland resident return. DC generally does not tax non-resident wage workers under the reciprocity agreement.
If working in Virginia, Maryland still taxes resident income — careful planning is key to avoid double taxation.
DC Residents Working in VA or Maryland
DC residents commuting to neighboring states may need to file non-resident returns for income earned in those states. DC will generally tax your worldwide income if you maintain your DC residence.
Common Mistakes Commuters Make (And How to Avoid Them)
- Assuming W‑2 withholding is correct — employer may have withheld the wrong state tax
- Not filing non-resident exemption forms — results in unnecessary withholding
- Treating all income the same — reciprocity usually applies only to wages
- Failing to file part-year returns after moving — can cause overpayment or missed credits
- Ignoring refunds or credits — many over-withheld taxpayers are owed money
How We Help — Local CPA Support in Manassas & Northern VA
At Brown, Mobley & Way PC, we specialize in commuter-tax issues for DMV residents. With decades of experience serving clients across Manassas, Prince William, Fairfax, and beyond:
What Happens When You Work With Us
- Free Commuter-Tax Review — we examine your residency, employment location, W‑2s, and withholding history
- Residency & Form Guidance — we help you complete and submit the right exemption/non-resident forms
- Filing & Refund Support — proper resident/non-resident returns, refunds for over-withholding, avoiding double taxation
- Ongoing Tax Planning — adjust filings for job or address changes, including part-year returns
What You Gain
- Confidence you won’t overpay or get surprised by double taxation
- Peace of mind knowing an experienced Northern VA CPA understands DMV complexities
- Time saved — no guessing or DIY headaches
- Local support — reach us in Manassas or nearby for in-person or phone consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
I live in Manassas, VA but my W‑2 shows DC withholding — what should I do?
Provide your employer with Form VA‑4 to exempt DC withholding. File for a refund of DC taxes when you file your Virginia return.
Do I owe taxes in both VA and MD if I live in VA and work in Maryland?
Possibly. Maryland taxes income earned in-state and Virginia taxes all resident income. Planning or credits can prevent double taxation.
If I move mid-year from DC to VA, how do I file?
File part-year resident returns for both jurisdictions, allocating income earned while residing in each.
Does the reciprocity agreement apply to non-wage income?
No. Reciprocity usually covers wages; business, rental, or other non-wage income may still be taxed by the state where it is earned.
Ready to Get It Right?
If you commute between VA, MD, and DC — or you’re unsure if you’re filing correctly — call us today for a free commuter-tax review. Let Brown, Mobley & Way PC help you stop overpaying and start tax season with confidence.
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