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Maximize Your EV Savings Before Tax Credits Vanish

Important Deadline Ahead: If you're considering purchasing a new or used electric vehicle (EV) or upgrading your business fleet, it's time to accelerate your plans. The substantial federal tax credits for electric vehicles will expire after September 30, 2025. This upcoming change presents significant implications, and here's how you can navigate this effectively.

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Understanding the Upcoming Credit Expiration

The future termed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has accelerated the termination of the IRA-era electric vehicle tax credits. Initially set to extend through 2032, these offsets will now end on September 30, 2025. This cessation occurs with no transitional period, meaning any purchase that crosses this deadline won't qualify.

Here's what this shift entails:

  • New EV credit: Up to $7,500

  • Used EV credit: Up to $4,000

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

Key Dates and Purchase Requirements

Eligibility hinges on taking possession of the vehicle by September 30, 2025. Merely signing a purchase agreement or planning to schedule delivery afterward will not suffice.

EV Leasing Considerations
When leasing an electric vehicle, the tax benefit applies to the entity offering the leased vehicle rather than the lessee. Most car manufacturers transmit this savings to consumers through diminished lease payments or upfront cost reductions.

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This "leasing loophole," allowing vehicles to attain full $7,500 credits under leases that otherwise might not qualify, also concludes on September 30. Post this deadline, future leases and deliveries will be unqualified for this allowance.

Action Steps for Both Dealers and Consumers

  • Prompt action is crucial: Secure vehicle availability and settle delivery timelines well ahead of the cut-off.

  • Explore credit transfer options: By transferring the credit to the dealer at point of purchase, buyers can immediate discount benefits or opt for claiming it through IRS Form 8936 during tax return filing.

  • Understand qualifications:

    • New EVs: Must conform to sourcing, assembly, and price restrictions ($55K for cars, $80K for SUVs/vans/trucks) along with income criteria (single: $150K, head of household: $225K, married filing jointly: $300K).
    • Used EVs: Must be at least two years old, purchased through a dealership, and sold for $25K or less with a credit limit of the lesser value of either $4K or 30% of the sale price.
    • Commercial EVs: Should be used for business with up to $40K incentives based on weight; limitations on income are not applicable.

Market Dynamics and Strategic Acquisitions

Market analysts project a potential surge in EV purchases through this summer as buyers look to capitalize on expiring credits, followed by a likely downturn in sales starting October. Research from Harvard suggests a 6% contraction in EV market share by 2030, despite the legislation anticipating saving the government $169 billion over the next decade. (Source)

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Nevertheless, with a narrowing window, perceptive buyers can still leverage noteworthy savings—ensuring timing is prioritized.

Summary at a Glance

Credit Type Amount Eligibility Deadline
New EV (individual) Up to $7,500 Meets sourcing, assembly, price, income rules Must take possession by Sep 30, 2025
Used EV Up to $4,000 (or 30%) Vehicle ≥2 years old, ≤ $25K Same as above
Commercial EV Up to $40,000 Business use, weight-based criteria Same as above
Leasing loophole Up to $7,500 Ends after Sep 30 Included above

Strategic Planning is Essential

If you're considering an EV, now is the time to strategize—confirm orders, ensure timely delivery, and verify credit eligibility. Consultation with your tax advisor is prudent to ensure all elements align. These tax credits are on a countdown.

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