- Biden's Inflation Reduction Act included a tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of electric vehicles.
- Due to recent rule delays, buyers are more likely to get full credit until March 2023.
- Here's what Americans looking to buy an electric car should know about credit.
Who is eligible for the new electric vehicle tax credit?
If you want to purchase a new EV and claim the $7,500 credit, you must first meet the following income requirements:
- Single filers under $150,000
- Head of household reporting income of $225,000 or less
- or joint filers earning $300,000 or less
Additionally, this credit can only be used for car-based EVs priced at $55,000 or less, with a cap of $80,000 for trucks, vans, and SUVs. Here are the cars that the Treasury says are currently eligible:
How can I earn bigger EV credits for a limited time?
On January 1st, new guidance on income and pricing for EV buyers will go into effect. But with the Treasury Department delaying implementation of its rule on sourcing battery minerals until March, buyers are being forced to buy EVs that may not meet both minerals and battery component requirements to pay the full $7,500 tax. If you do, you have the opportunity to earn an additional $3,750. credit. This is because the eligibility requirements for vehicles will tighten once the new guidance comes into effect, giving buyers a better chance of getting credit before March. For example, as his Electrek on the transportation site states, Chevy Bolt will be a "scream deal" between January and March. This is because when the new rules are put in place, the ineligible extra he can earn $3,750 in credit. According to the Department of Energy, if you buy an EV in 2022, you can claim the purchase on your 2023 tax return, but the credit will be phased out after manufacturers reach their sales cap for eligible vehicles. For purchases after the IRA was passed on August 17, 2022, the requirement will be limited to vehicles manufactured in North America, with the sales cap removed in 2023.
Am I eligible for a tax credit on the purchase of a used electric vehicle?
Beginning in 2023, used electric vehicles are eligible for a credit of up to $4,000 limited to 30% of the purchase price of the vehicle. moreover:
- Credit applies only to the first transfer of the vehicle
- Car price must be $25,000 or less
- Car model must be at least 2 years old
- Also, credits can only be claimed once every three years.