WEST VIRGINIA - If you live in West Virginia, the state government might be sending you a check without you even asking for it—but you shouldn't wait by the mailbox to see if you get lucky. The State Treasurer’s Office is currently running a program called "WV Cash Now." It’s a massive initiative to return millions in unclaimed property to residents. If the system matches your name and address perfectly, they mail a check automatically.
But "lost" money isn't the only financial opportunity in 2026. The state has fully rolled out the Motor Vehicle Property Tax Adjustment Credit, which essentially refunds the "Car Tax" you pay on your vehicle.
Here is your guide to getting what is owed to you in the Mountain State.
1. The "WV Cash Now" Program
West Virginia is one of the few states with a truly automated "Money Match" system. The Treasurer’s Office cross-references its database with state records. If they find unclaimed money under your name (like an uncashed utility deposit or insurance dividend) and can verify your current address, they simply mail you the check.
The Catch: The automated system only works for straightforward claims. If you have older accounts, property under a maiden name, or amounts held by companies that didn't have your current address, the system won't find you. You must search manually to find the "big" money.
How to Check:
- Go to the Official Site: Visit wvunclaimedproperty.gov.
- Search: Enter your name.
- Look for Deceased Relatives: This is often where life insurance policies sit unclaimed for decades.
2. The "Car Tax" Refund (MV-1 Credit)
This is the biggest financial change for West Virginians in years. You still have to pay your vehicle personal property tax, BUT you can now get that money back as a full refundable credit on your state income tax.
It is called the Motor Vehicle Property Tax Adjustment Credit.
How it works:
- Pay on Time: You must pay your personal property tax by the deadlines (Half by Oct 1, Half by April 1).
- File the Claim: When you file your West Virginia state income tax return (IT-140), you claim the amount you paid as a credit.
- The Benefit: If the credit is more than the income tax you owe, the state sends you a check for the difference.
Warning: This is not automatic. If you don't claim it on your tax return, the state keeps the money.
3. Heating Assistance (LIEAP)
With winter hitting hard in the mountains, the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a critical resource.
The program typically opens for the general public in late January or early February (dates vary slightly by year). It provides direct cash payments to utility companies to help cover heating costs for electric, gas, or bulk fuel (propane/wood/coal).
- Income Limits: Eligibility is based on 130% of the federal poverty level.
- Crisis Component: If you have a "disconnection notice" or are running out of bulk fuel, you may qualify for the Emergency Crisis program, which expedites the funding.
- How to Apply: Applications are processed through your local DHHR office.
4. The Senior Homestead Exemption
If you are age 65 or older (or permanently disabled), you should not be paying tax on the full value of your home.
The Homestead Exemption knocks $20,000 off the assessed value of your home for tax purposes.
- One-Time Application: Unlike some states where you file yearly, in WV you usually only file once.
- Deadline: You must apply by December 1 for the following tax year. If you recently turned 65 and haven't applied yet, do it now so you don't miss another year of savings.
Action Plan: 3 Steps to Take Today
- Search the Database: Go to wvunclaimedproperty.gov to catch what the "Cash Now" automated system missed.
- Save Your Tax Receipts: Dig up your personal property tax receipt for your car/truck. You will need the exact amount when you file your state taxes this spring to get your refund.
- Check Your Parents' Status: If you have elderly parents, ensure they have the Homestead Exemption applied to their property taxes. It’s a simple check that saves hundreds of dollars a year.
