Which state income taxes apply on executor income (executor resident state, or state in which probate occurs)?

Question

I am a beneficiary and executor of estates of two relatives that died in WV. I reside in another state, which also has state income taxes.
Do I claim the executor income in my state of residence? or do I file state income tax return in WV, claiming the income there? My state's tax rate is ~25% less than WV's.
I have looked on both states' websites and can find no guidance on this question.

Five Bagger · Accepted Answer

The laws involving this problem are inconsistent and even contradictory. Imagine if your relatives had property and bank accounts in 10 different states. Then it would get REALLY confusing and contradictory.
In general, the best practice is to pay taxes in the state in which you reside. Any state trying to collect taxes from you which is not your home state will have a legally uphill battle doing so. Note that the State of New Hampshire is currently suing Massachusetts in the Supreme Court because Massachusetts is trying to collect income taxes on people who live in New Hampshire and work remotely in Massachusetts. It is likely that New Hampshire will win this case because you can't tax somebody who has no representation and NH residents cannot vote in Massachusetts.
Bottom line here: declare taxes only in the state where you live and operate.

Which state income taxes apply on executor income (executor resident state, or state in which probate occurs)?

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