Seize EV Savings: Tax Credit Deadline Nears

Urgent Update: If an electric vehicle (EV) purchase—whether new, used, or for your business fleet—is on your radar, this is your crucial reminder. The substantial federal tax credits will expire on September 30, 2025. Here's the vital information you need to act wisely and swiftly.

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The End of EV Tax Incentives and Its Implications

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has surprisingly curtailed the EV tax credits initially slated to last until 2032, with a strict expiration set for September 30, 2025. No extending phase-outs or exemptions for post-deadline deliveries mean it's time to strategize your acquisition.

  • New EV credit: Up to $7,500

  • Used EV credit: Up to $4,000

  • Commercial EV credit: Ranges from $7,500 to $40,000, dependent on vehicle weight

Critical Timeline and the Definition of “Acquired”

Eligibility hinges on vehicle possession by September 30, 2025. A mere signed agreement or delivery intended for after this date will disqualify you.

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Leasing and the Tax Benefit
For those leasing EVs, the clean vehicle tax credit benefits typically pass from manufacturers to consumers via reduced lease payments. The loophole enabling full EV credit via leasing, even when purchase criteria are unmet, will close on September 30.

Steps for Dealers and Consumers

  • Immediate Action: Verify availability and secure delivery schedules well in advance of the deadline.

  • Understanding Transfers: Opt to assign the credit to the dealer upon purchase for upfront savings, or claim it during tax season via IRS Form 8936.

  • Comprehend Eligibility Criteria:

    ○      For New EVs: Compliance with sourcing, assembly, price (≤$55K cars, ≤$80K vans/SUVs/trucks), and income limits (single: $150K, head of household: $225K, married jointly: $300K).

    ○      For Used EVs: Aged at least two model years, dealership sales priced ≤$25K, lesser of 30% of sale price or $4K credit.

    ○      Commercial EVs: Primarily business use, credit up to $40K, contingent on weight, no income restrictions.

Market Dynamics and Strategic Planning

Analysts foresee a potential surge in EV acquisitions prior to the cutoff, followed by a decline in sales. A Harvard analysis predicts a 6% reduction in EV market shares by 2030, despite government savings of $169 billion over a decade. (Reuters)

Nevertheless, with quick action, astute buyers might still take advantage of these tax incentives—timing is paramount.

Quick Summary

Credit Type

Amount

Eligibility

Deadline

New EV (individual)

Up to $7,500

Sourcing, assembly, price, income rules

Possession by Sep 30, 2025

Used EV

Up to $4,000 (or 30%)

Vehicle ≥2 years, ≤ $25K

Same as above

Commercial EV

Up to $40,000

Business use, weight criteria

Same as above

Leasing loophole

Up to $7,500

Ends after Sep 30

Included above

Conclusion: Don’t Procrastinate

If an electric vehicle is on your agenda, move decisively—solidify orders, verify delivery dates, and confirm credit eligibility. Engaging with a tax advisor, like Jeanie K. Sutton, can ensure compliance and maximize benefits. Time is of the essence.

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