[jugal2]

Hi, I live in VA and own a house in VA. I work in MA so I am paying my state income taxes in MA. Since there is 0.5% income rate difference between VA (5.7%) and MA (5.2%), so I have a very little tax to VA. As per law If I work continuously for 1 year in MA, I legally become resident of MA. Since I do not want to move, I have family living in VA. So when I file my taxes, can I make MA as my resident state and do not file VA state taxes (There is ZERO income in VA state)? 2. Can I deduct my mortgage and property taxes while filing my taxes in MA state?

[AtlantaTaxExpert]

Jugal2:

I do not believe your interpretation of Massachusetts tax law is accurate. You can work in Massachusetts and LIVE in Virginia and file the Massachusetts tax return as a non-resident indefinitely.

Now, if you BOTH work and live in Massachusetts, but maintain a home in Virginia and maintain your domicile in Virginia, then, eventually, you will be considered a Massachusetts resident. BTW, that will also make you liable to the Massachusetts law that dictates that you have health insurance coverage, at least for yourself and possibly for your family.

If you file as a resident of Massachusetts, you should be able to deduct the mortgage interest and property taxes, even if the house is in Virginia.