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How much do we pay in gasoline taxes? |
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Federal and state taxes account for one-fifth, or approximately 15 percent, of the cost of a gallon of gasoline in West Virginia. We pay 49.40 cents in state and federal taxes on every gallon of gasoline we purchase.
According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the national average for state gasoline taxes is 21.44 cents. The lowest state gasoline tax in the nation is Georgia at 7.5 cents per gallon, while the highest is Washington at 36 center per gallon. West Virginia charges 32.2 cents per gallon - nearly 11 cents over the national average and the third highest state gasoline tax in the nation.
| West Virginia Tax on Each Gallon of Gasoline |
| West Virginia Tax |
31.50 cents |
| Federal Tax |
18.40 cents |
| Total |
49.9 cents |
In those border states where the gas tax is lower, West Virginia retailers are negatively impacted. Customers will drive across the state line to purchase lower cost fuel. In West Virginia, all fuel taxes go to the Department of Highways to fund state road projects.
Through the fuel tax, West Virginia consumers provided nearly $321 million in 2005.
| urrounding States Tax on Each Gallon of Gasoline |
| Kentucky |
21 cents |
| Virginia |
19.2 cents
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Maryland
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23.5 cents |
Ohio
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28 cents |
Pennsylvania
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31.2 cents |
With West Virginia's small population, our annual consumption of
gasoline is small in comparison to most states. West Virginia has
approximately 1,300 retail locations that sell gasoline. The average
station sells approximately 54,500 gallons per month.
Typically, when a station sells fewer gallons they charge more for it
to allow them to cover the fixed costs (payroll, facilities, and
insurance) for their business. Stations with large volumes can often
sell their products for less. Due to our limited distribution system,
our state has less inventory than others. Much of our fuel comes from
out of state, which increases the cost.
If you would like more information on state or federal gasoline taxes,
please contact Jan Vineyard at (304) 343-5500 or visit www.omegawv.com.
(Each gallon of gasoline taxes effective 1/1/2008)
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