How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Employee in West Virginia? (2026)

State-specific payroll taxes, workers' comp, and total employer costs in West Virginia.

Total Cost at $60K Salary

$65,685

Cost multiplier: 1.09x

SUTA Rate (Mid)

2.5%

Wage base: $9,000

Workers' Comp Rate

1.38%

Has state income tax

West Virginia Employer Tax Details

State-specific payroll obligations for employers

SUTA Rate Range 0.15% – 8.5%
SUTA New Employer Rate (typical) 2.5%
SUTA Wage Base $9,000
Workers' Compensation (avg) 1.38% of payroll
State Income Tax Yes

Example Employer Costs in West Virginia

Mandatory employer taxes only (no benefits or overhead)

Component $40,000 Salary $60,000 Salary $80,000 Salary
Social Security (6.2%) $2,480 $3,720 $4,960
Medicare (1.45%) $580 $870 $1,160
FUTA $42 $42 $42
SUTA (WV) $225 $225 $225
Workers' Comp $552 $828 $1,104
Total Employer Taxes $3,879 $5,685 $7,491
Total Cost (salary + taxes) $43,879 (1.1x) $65,685 (1.09x) $87,491 (1.09x)

These estimates include mandatory employer payroll taxes only. Add benefits ($7K-$17K) and overhead (~10% of salary) for full cost.

How West Virginia Compares

West Virginia's typical SUTA rate of 2.5% is above the national average of ~1.70%.

Workers' compensation at 1.38% of payroll is above the national average of ~1.20%.

Calculate Your Exact Employee Cost

Use our interactive calculator with your specific salary, state, and benefits to get an exact number.

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