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Why is the Tesla Model 3 not eligible for tax credit?

The Tesla Model 3 electric vehicle is no longer eligible for the federal tax credit, a financial incentive that has helped drive electric vehicle adoption in the United States. This is due to Tesla reaching the 200,000-vehicle sales cap for the tax credit program.


The Federal Electric Vehicle Tax Credit


The federal electric vehicle tax credit was introduced in 2010 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. It provides a tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of a new electric vehicle. The credit is designed to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles by offsetting their higher upfront costs.


However, the tax credit phases out once an automaker sells 200,000 eligible electric vehicles. Once this threshold is reached, the credit is reduced and eventually eliminated for that automaker's vehicles.


Tesla's Eligibility for the Tax Credit


Tesla reached the 200,000-vehicle sales cap in the United States in July 2018. As a result, the tax credit for Tesla vehicles began to phase out, starting at $3,750 and then dropping to $1,875 before being eliminated entirely.


This means that Tesla Model 3 buyers are no longer eligible for the federal tax credit, which can significantly impact the affordability of the vehicle. The loss of the tax credit has been a factor in Tesla's efforts to lower the base price of the Model 3 to make it more accessible to a wider range of consumers.


Implications for Electric Vehicle Adoption


The expiration of the tax credit for Tesla vehicles has raised concerns about the potential impact on electric vehicle adoption in the United States. The tax credit has been an important incentive for consumers to make the switch to electric vehicles, and its removal could slow the pace of electric vehicle adoption.


However, other automakers, such as General Motors and Nissan, are still eligible for the tax credit, and the overall electric vehicle market continues to grow. Additionally, some states offer their own incentives and rebates for electric vehicle purchases, which can help offset the loss of the federal tax credit.

What is the income limit for a Tesla $7500 discount?


In addition, your modified adjusted gross income (AGI) may not exceed: $300,000 for married couples filing jointly or a surviving spouse. $225,000 for heads of households. $150,000 for all other filers.



Why is Tesla not eligible for EV tax credit?


Tesla was at first excluded from the state's original tax credit program for EVs because the vehicle price was too high. The company then dropped the price on the models Y and S so they could be eligible.



Is the Tesla Model 3 still eligible for tax credits?


All three trims in the updated Tesla Model 3 lineup are now eligible for the full $7500 tax credit. That means the rear-drive Long Range trim as well as the AWD version have been added to the IRS's nice list.



How do you qualify for the $7500 federal tax credit?


Vehicles meeting both the critical mineral and the battery component requirements are eligible for a total tax credit of $7,500. Vans, sport utility vehicles, and pickup trucks must not have an MSRP above $80,000, and all other vehicles may not have an MSRP above $55,000.



Which EVs qualify for tax credit in 2024?


Which Electric Cars Were Eligible for a Tax Credit in 2024?

  • Acura ZDX EV (2024 model years; MSRP, $80,000 or below)
  • Cadillac Lyriq (2024 model year; MSRP, $80,000 or below)
  • Chevrolet Blazer EV (2024 model year; MSRP, $80,000 or below)
  • Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV (2022 and 2023 model years; MSRP, $55,000 or below)



When did Tesla stop qualifying for tax credit?


Tesla models, like the Model Y and all Model 3 versions, were eligible for the full $7,500 EV credit through the 2023 tax year. However, not all Tesla models are eligible for the EV credit for the 2024 tax year(returns you're filing now, in early 2025)..



How do I claim my $7500 Tesla tax credit?


Use Form 8936 to claim either the Qualified Plug-In Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit or the new Clean Vehicle Credit. The Qualified Plug-In Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit and the new Clean Vehicle Credit are each worth up to $7,500.



How to claim $7500 EV tax credit turbotax?


You can use Form 8936 to claim an electric vehicle tax credit for vehicles purchased and placed into service during the current tax year. Form 8936 is used for qualifying plug-in electric drive motor vehicles, including qualified two-wheeled plug-in electric vehicles.



Do pre owned Teslas qualify for tax credit?


Beginning January 1, 2023, if you buy a qualified used electric vehicle (EV) or fuel cell vehicle (FCV) from a licensed dealer for $25,000 or less, you may be eligible for a used clean vehicle tax credit. The credit equals 30% of the sale price up to a maximum credit of $4,000.



Why am I not getting the EV tax credit?


You can claim a credit for purchasing a qualified plug-in electric vehicle if you meet the following requirements: You are the owner of the vehicle. If you're leasing the vehicle from someone, you can't claim the credit. You purchased the vehicle new and started using it during 2022. No one used the vehicle before you.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.