Maximize Your EV Tax Benefits Before They Disappear

Urgent Notification: For those in the market for a new or used electric vehicle—personal or fleet-related—this is a critical advisory. The substantial federal tax credits will disappear after September 30, 2025. Here's how this impacts you and what strategic steps you can take to capitalize on these benefits.

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What's Coming to an End - And Why You Should Take Note

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has accelerated the conclusion of the IRA-era EV tax credits. Originally planned through 2032, these incentives will now end on September 30, 2025—without any gradual phase-out, grace period, or allowances for later deliveries.

This change means:

  • New EV credit: Up to $7,500

  • Used EV credit: Up to $4,000

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

Critical Dates and the Definition of "Acquired"

Eligibility Criteria: You must take possession of the vehicle by September 30, 2025. Contracts signed or scheduled deliveries after this cutoff won't qualify.

Leasing and the EV Tax Credit: During an EV lease, the tax credit is awarded to the manufacturer or dealer. Most automakers transfer this benefit through reduced lease payments. The so-called "leasing loophole" allowed EVs to receive the full $7,500 credit irrespective of direct purchase requirements. This option also ends on September 30. Post-deadline, no new leases or postponed purchases will qualify for this structure.

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Steps for Dealers and Buyers

  • Act swiftly: Verify availability and confirm delivery timelines well in advance of the deadline.

  • Explore transfer opportunities: Opt to transfer the credit to the dealer at purchase for immediate discount, or claim it on your tax filing using IRS Form 8936.

  • Comprehend eligibility terms:

    ○    New EVs: Must comply with sourcing and assembly standards, price limits ($55K for cars, $80K for vans/SUVs/trucks); income restrictions (single: $150K, head of household: $225K, married filing jointly: $300K).

    ○    Used EVs: Vehicle needs to be at least two model years old, retailed by a dealer, and priced ≤ $25K; the credit is the lesser of $4K or 30% of the sale price.

    ○    Commercial EVs: Business use with potential credits up to $40K contingent on weight; no income caps.

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Overall Market Impact & Strategy

According to market analysts, anticipate a surge in EV purchases through the summer as buyers aim to beat the deadline, followed by a likely decline in sales by October. A Harvard analysis forecasts a 6% dip in EV market share by 2030, yet the legislation is expected to save the government $169 billion over ten years. (Reuters)

Nevertheless, for discerning buyers, there is still a window to secure substantial savings, but timing is crucial.

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Overview

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

Key Takeaway: Don't Delay

If acquiring an EV is on your checklist, now is the optimal moment to make a move—secure your orders, affirm delivery dates, and verify credit eligibility. Alternatively, consult with your tax advisor to ensure all protocols are in place. These tax credits won’t stand by.

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Let's talk. We are here to help!
Contact Us
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