Maximize Savings: The Expiring EV Tax Credit Guide

Urgent Update: Are you considering purchasing an electric vehicle (EV)—whether new, used, or for your business fleet? Act quickly as the generous federal tax credits will end on September 30, 2025. This article outlines why it's crucial and the decisive steps you can take.

Upcoming Expiration: Key Reasons and Consequences

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is unexpectedly accelerating the termination of IRA-era EV tax credits. Initially slated to remain in effect till 2032, these credits will now expire on September 30, 2025, offering no phase-out period or grandfather clause for post-deadline deliveries.

Implications include:

  • New EV credit: Up to $7,500

  • Used EV credit: Up to $4,000

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

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Crucial Deadlines and Acquisition Clarification

Eligibility hinges on taking possession of the EV by the September 30, 2025 deadline. Neither signed contracts nor scheduled deliveries post-deadline will be sufficient.

EV Leasing and Credit Impacts
When leasing an EV, the clean vehicle tax credit is usually retained by the manufacturer or dealer. This often translates to reduced lease prices or lower monthly payments for the consumer. The “leasing loophole” allowed EV models, otherwise ineligible for the full $7,500 purchase credit, to qualify under a lease agreement. However, this provision ends after September 30. New leases or arrangements beyond this date no longer qualify.

Immediate Actions for Dealers and Purchasers

  • Move swiftly: If in the market, verify vehicle availability and delivery timelines far in advance of the deadline.

  • Credit transfer understanding: The credit can be credited to the dealer at purchase, reducing the upfront cost, or later claimed on your tax return through IRS Form 8936.

  • Comprehend eligibility criteria:

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

    ○      Used EVs: Must be at least two model years old, transacted through a dealer, and priced at or below $25K; credit is limited to the lesser of $4K or 30% of sale price.

    ○      Commercial EVs: Ideal for business utilization, valued up to $40K based on weight; no income qualifications.

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    Broad Perspective: Market Dynamics & Strategic Planning

    Experts anticipate a surge in EV acquisitions this summer as buyers vie to meet the deadline, potentially leading to a decline in sales post-October. Harvard research anticipates a 6% reduction in EV market share by 2030, though legislation aims to save the government $169 billion over a decade. (Reuters)

    With time running out, informed buyers still have a window for substantial savings—but precise timing is essential.

    Quick Reference Summary

    Credit Type

    Amount

    Eligibility

    Deadline

    New EV (individual)

    Up to $7,500

    Meets sourcing, assembly, price, income rules

    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

    Final Thoughts: Don't Delay Your EV Purchase

    If an EV purchase is on your horizon, act expeditiously—finalize purchases, confirm delivery schedules, and verify credit eligibility. Consult your tax advisor to ensure everything aligns. The window for these tax credits is closing.

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