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Tax Credit Sunset: Act Fast to Maximize Environmental Incentives Before Deadline

The current legislative proposals could dramatically reshape the future of environmental tax credits. The bill known as "The One, Big, Beautiful Bill" is set for Senate deliberation after passing through the House of Representatives on May 22, 2025. If enacted, this legislation will bring forward the expiration date of pivotal environmental tax credits to December 31, 2025, a change from the initially planned end date of December 31, 2032. Although the bill hasn't become law yet, a swift Senate pass could urge taxpayers to expedite their decisions on eco-friendly investments.

In-depth Analysis of Vital Tax Credits:

  • Previously Owned Clean Vehicle Credit: This credit is open for vehicles with a model year at least two years older than the year of acquisition. The vehicle must be pre-owned, not exceed a $25,000 sales price, and be purchased from a dealer. Furthermore, it should have a significant portion of its propulsion provided by an electric motor drawing power from a rechargeable battery of at least 7 kilowatt-hours. This offer expires on December 31, 2025.

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    • Tax Benefit: A credit equal to the lesser of either $4,000 or 30% of the sale price.
    • Buyer Income Limitations: $75,000 for individuals, $112,500 for heads of household, and $150,000 for joint filers.
  • New Clean Vehicle Credit: Eligibility requires vehicles from qualified manufacturers, where a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is reported to the IRS. The vehicle should be for personal use or leased, with primary use within the U.S. This credit changes by December 31, 2025.

    • Tax Benefit: A credit of $7,500 or $3,750.
    • Buyer Income Limitations (MAGI): $150,000 for individuals, $300,000 for married couples filing jointly, and $225,000 for heads of household.
  • Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit: Applicable to energy-saving enhancements to primary homes in the U.S., excluding new constructions. The annual cap is set at $1,200, with distinct limits on specific improvements such as insulation, qualifying windows, or high-efficiency systems. Completion must occur by December 31, 2025.

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    • Tax Benefit: 30% of qualified expenditures, capped annually at $1,200 (up to $2,000 for heat pumps and biomass stoves).
    • Buyer Income Limitations (MAGI): None.
  • Residential Clean Energy Credit: Covers qualified clean energy installations on U.S. residential properties, including solar systems and geothermal pumps. No upper cap on credit is given for qualified solar property, but completion and possible inspection must occur by December 31, 2025.

    • Tax Benefit: 30% of qualified expenditures.
    • Buyer Income Limitations (MAGI): None.

While "The One, Big, Beautiful Bill" is not yet set in stone, taxpayers should urgently prepare to leverage these available environmental tax credits before the likely abbreviated timeline. Proactively planning can lead to advantageous savings in the wake of potentially constrained opportunities.

For more information about qualifying for these credits and understanding their potential refunds, reach out to our office.

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