How Does the Federal EV Tax Credit Work?

Are you thinking about purchasing an electric vehicle for the first time? In addition to saving money on gas costs and reducing your carbon footprint, you could be eligible for the federal electric car tax credit. So what is this EV tax credit, and what makes a vehicle eligible? Learn about the electric car tax credit today with Cornerstone Auto before exploring our electric vehicle inventory. We are certain there’s an EV model from our lineup that meets your driving needs in Monticello, MN and the surrounding areas! Contact us with any questions. 

Which Models are Included for this Electric Car Tax Credit?

Whenever this EV tax credit is mentioned, it often sounds like every electric model is applicable. However, that is false. In addition to the model being new, a qualifying EV also needs to meet the following criteria:

• Draws propulsion using a traction battery that has at least 7 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of capacity
• Uses an external source of energy to recharge the battery
• Has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 14,000 pounds
• Is assembled in North America
• Meets critical mineral and battery component requirements (for vehicles placed in service after April 18, 2023)
• Is primarily driven in the United States

If you’re considering a plug-in or battery EV, you will need to keep in mind that the model you’re interested in has to be built by a qualified manufacturer in order to earn the maximum electric car tax credit of $7,500. Also, an electric vehicle lease might be a great alternative if you prefer not to own the car long-term, but keep in mind that tax credits are only available for purchases.

Vehicles That Qualify

To qualify for the federal tax credit, a vehicle must meet all the criteria listed above. However, eligibility can vary based on specific vehicle models and their compliance with new regulations. Contact our team to confirm if the new you’re interested in qualifies for the tax credit. Our team can provide up-to-date information on which vehicles are eligible and help you navigate the process to ensure you maximize your savings.

Am I Eligible for the Federal EV Tax Credit?

You’ve checked that the model you want is qualified for this tax credit. Now, you’ll need to see if the credit can be applied to your taxes. While the EV tax credit is available for purchases, it’s important to note that an electric vehicle lease will direct the tax benefits to the lending institution.

Once you know you’re set on buying an EV, you’ll need to consider how much you will owe in income tax for that year. This amount is key because it caps how much of the tax credit you can get. For example, if you buy an electric model eligible for the full $7,500, and you owe $3,000 in income tax, then you can only earn $3,000 of the credit. Similarly, if that model is only eligible for $1,500, then you will earn only $1,500 instead. In other words, you can only earn the full amount if you owe at least $7,500 in income tax the year you bought your EV, and the model qualifies for the maximum credit.

Lastly, keep in mind that you cannot pass the federal EV tax credit to someone else even if you decide to sell your EV. Only the registered owner of an eligible model can claim this credit, so if you want to buy a used model instead, you won’t be able to access this credit.

Learn More About the Electric Car Tax Credit at Cornerstone Auto!

Ready to browse our inventory and find an electric vehicle that qualifies for the EV tax credit? Call 763-274-3390 or contact us online today to make your appointment. We are here to answer any EV or related tax credit questions you have! For more helpful information, learn about our EV incentive programs and how long it takes to charge an electric car!