Grab EV Tax Breaks Before They're Gone! September 2025 Deadline

Urgent Tax Update: If you're contemplating purchasing a new or pre-owned electric vehicle (EV)—whether for personal use or as part of a business fleet—it's time to act. The current federal tax incentives are set to end on September 30, 2025. In this guide, we’ll explore why this cut-off is crucial and how you can still benefit.

Understanding the Changes: Why It Matters

With the enactment of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), the timeline for previously available IRA-era EV tax credits has been shortened significantly. Initially slated to remain in effect until 2032, these tax benefits will now expire abruptly on September 30, 2025, without a transitional phase, extension, or exceptions for vehicles delivered post-deadline.

Here's what's on the line:

  • New EV Credit: Up to $7,500

  • Used EV Credit: Up to $4,000

  • Commercial EV Credit: Ranging from $7,500 to $40,000, based on the vehicle's weight

Critical Dates and Acquisition Rules

In order to qualify for these credits, you must acquire—the key is to take delivery—of your EV by September 30, 2025. Signing a contract or setting a delivery date post-deadline does not guarantee eligibility.

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Leasing Considerations
When leasing an EV, the clean vehicle tax credit is typically awarded to the dealer or manufacturer rather than the lessee. In many cases, automakers pass this financial advantage on to consumers, reflected in reduced lease payments or prices. However, with the September deadline, new leasing options will cease to qualify for this credit post-deadline.

Action Items for Dealers and Buyers

  • Immediate Steps: If you plan on purchasing an EV, verify its availability and delivery schedule before the cut-off date.

  • Manage Credit Transfers: At the point of purchase, you can opt to transfer the credit to the dealer for an upfront discount, or you may choose to claim it directly on your tax return via IRS Form 8936.

  • Ensure Eligibility:

    ○     New EVs: Must align with sourcing and assembly criteria and meet price thresholds ($55K for cars, $80K for vans/SUVs/trucks); income constraints apply (individual: $150K, household: $225K, joint filing: $300K).
    ○     Used EVs: The vehicle should be at least two years old, acquired through a dealer, and priced at ≤ $25K; the credit amounts to the lesser of $4K or 30% of the sale price.
    ○     Commercial EVs: For business goals, up to $40K depending on weight; no income restrictions.

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Market Implications & Timing

Industry forecasts suggest a notable increase in EV purchases over the summer as buyers hurry to secure incentives before the cutoff, likely followed by a downturn in sales come October. According to one Harvard study, this could result in a 6% reduction in EV market share by 2030, driving federal savings of $169 billion over ten years. (Reuters)

Despite the shrinking window, proactive buyers can still secure substantial savings, underscoring the importance of strategic timing.

Quick 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

Final Thoughts: Swift Action Required

If an electric vehicle aligns with your aspirations, now is the opportune moment to move—secure your orders, establish delivery timelines, and verify your eligibility for tax credits. For expert advice, consult your tax adviser to ensure all elements are correctly aligned. These incentives won’t be available for long.

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