In brief
Senator Jim Justice, who formerly had a net worth of $1.9 billion, has reached an agreement to pay approximately $5.2 million in overdue personal taxes owed to the federal government, stemming from unpaid income taxes dating back to 2009. This settlement comes as Justice faces various financial difficulties, including liens totaling over $8 million for unpaid taxes and disputes over his family's historic Greenbrier hotel. Previously hailed as a billionaire, Justice's financial status has declined significantly, indicating liabilities have outstripped assets. Despite these challenges, Justice continues to claim political motivations behind financial actions against him.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — U.S. Senator Jim Justice of West Virginia has agreed to pay nearly $5.2 million in overdue personal taxes, marking a significant point in his prolonged financial troubles. This settlement comes after the federal government filed a lawsuit against the Justice family for failing to fully pay income taxes dating back to 2009.
Once considered a billionaire with an estimated fortune of $1.9 billion a decade ago according to Forbes, Justice's worth has drastically decreased to less than zero this year due to his liabilities surpassing his assets. In a consent judgment motion submitted to federal authorities, Justice confirmed the intention to rectify his financial obligations.
Justice, who previously served as West Virginia's governor and currently oversees a complex portfolio of businesses, including coal and agricultural operations, has faced multiple financial adversities. Just last month, the IRS filed liens of over $8 million against him and his wife for unpaid personal taxes. Compounding these issues, state tax officials have also filed liens totaling $1.4 million against the Justice family's renowned Greenbrier hotel due to non-payment of sales taxes.
In October, Justice contended during a local media briefing that the financial inquiries against him were politically charged, asserting that his children manage his businesses “magnificently.” He commented, “At the end of the day, I’d say just let it be and see how it all plays out.”
The financial woes don’t end here. Notably, a foreclosure auction involving several hundred lots owned by the Justice family in a resort community was recently halted. This dispute arose between Justice Holdings and the Glade Springs Village Property Owners Association regarding unpaid fees.
Justice's challenges in maintaining his family legacy also include past incidents, such as in 2021 when the IRS filed liens over $1.1 million against the Greenbrier Hotel. Although this debt was cleared later, other financial issues loom large—workers at the Greenbrier were at risk of losing health insurance coverage due to unpaid contributions.
Despite these ongoing struggles, Justice remains committed to his role within the Senate, holding the seat formerly occupied by Joe Manchin, who transitioned to an independent status. As he navigates these complexities, Justice’s financial future remains uncertain amidst his political career.
