West Virginia § 11-21-6 - 11-21-6. Accounting periods and methods.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 11-21-6 — 11-21-6. Accounting periods and methods., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 11-21-6. 11-21-6. Accounting periods and methods.
(a) Accounting periods. -- A taxpayer's taxable year under this article shall be the same as his taxable year for federal income tax purposes.
(b) Change of accounting periods. -- If a taxpayer's taxable year is changed for federal income tax purposes, his taxable year for purposes of this article shall be similarly changed. If a taxable year of less than twelve months results from a change of taxable year, the West Virginia standard deduction, the West Virginia personal exemptions and the credits allowed under section eight shall be prorated under regulations of the Tax Commissioner.
(c) Accounting methods. -- A taxpayer's method of accounting under this article shall be the same as his method of accounting for federal income tax purposes. In the absence of any method of accounting for federal income tax purposes, West Virginia taxable income shall be computed under such method as in the opinion of the Tax Commissioner clearly reflects income.
(d) Change of accounting methods. -- (1) If a taxpayer's method of accounting is changed for federal income tax purposes, his method of accounting for purposes of this article shall be similarly changed.
(2) If a taxpayer's method of accounting is changed, other than from an accrual to an installment method, any additional tax which results from adjustments determined to be necessary solely by reason of the change shall not be greater than if such adjustments were rateably allocated and included for the taxable year of the change and the preceding taxable years, not in excess of two, during which the taxpayer used the method of accounting from which the change is made.
(3) If a taxpayer's method of accounting is changed from an accrual to an installment method, any additional tax for the year of such change of method and for any subsequent year which is attributable to the receipt of installment payments properly accrued in a prior year shall be reduced by the portion of tax for any prior taxable year attributable to the accrual of such installment payments, in accordance with regulations of the Tax Commissioner.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 11-21-6
What does West Virginia Code § 11-21-6 cover?
Section 11-21-6 ("11-21-6. Accounting periods and methods.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite West Virginia § 11-21-6?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 11-21-6" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of West Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.
How does West Virginia § 11-21-6 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.