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Driving Down Taxes: The New Auto Loan Interest Deduction Explained

It is not every day that we get to announce a potential new tax break for individual taxpayers, but proposed regulations under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act are aiming to do just that. For loans originated after December 31, 2024, a new provision allows for the deduction of interest on qualified passenger vehicles intended for personal use.

For our clients here in Gilbert and the greater Arizona area, this could mean significant savings during tax years 2025 through 2028. However, like most IRS regulations, the devil is in the details. Here is what you need to know before you sign on the dotted line at the dealership.

Who qualifies for the deduction?

The most distinct feature of this tax break is that it is a "below-the-line" deduction. This means it is available to you whether you itemize deductions or take the standard deduction. This is a significant win for the average taxpayer. To qualify, you must meet specific criteria:

  • Income Ceilings: The benefit begins to phase out for taxpayers with a modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) over $150,000 (or $250,000 for married couples filing jointly).
  • Deduction Cap: There is a strict annual cap of $10,000 per tax return.
  • Personal Use: You must anticipate using the vehicle for personal purposes more than 50% of the time when you buy it.
Driving in city traffic

What vehicles make the cut?

The legislation is designed to support domestic manufacturing. Consequently, the deduction applies exclusively to new passenger vehicles (cars, SUVs, minivans, pickups, and motorcycles) that are assembled in the United States. The vehicle must also have a gross vehicle weight rating below 14,000 pounds.

Before purchasing, we recommend verifying the final assembly point using the vehicle's VIN at the official NHTSA site: Welcome to VIN Decoding provided by vPIC.

Guidance for Small Business Owners

At Martinez & Shanken PLLC, we know many of our clients use their vehicles for both family hauling and client meetings. If you have a mixed-use vehicle, you do not lose out on this benefit, but the math requires precision.

You can claim a business expense deduction for the interest related to business use, and then claim the remaining personal portion under this new provision (subject to the cap). However, ensure you meet the initial "greater than 50% personal use" expectation at the time of purchase to qualify for the personal deduction component.

CPA consulting with client

Financing Rules and Paperwork

To claim this on your Form 1040, the loan must be secured by the vehicle and originate from an independent lender, such as a bank or credit union. Loans from family members do not qualify, and critically, interest paid on leased vehicles is not deductible.

For tax reporting, lenders are expected to file a new Form 1098-VLI. For the 2025 tax year, the IRS is permitting lenders to issue a simple statement of interest paid instead. You will need to report the vehicle's VIN on a new schedule attached to your return.

Tax laws are constantly shifting. If you are considering a major vehicle purchase and want to ensure it fits into your broader financial strategy, reach out to Martinez & Shanken PLLC today.

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Martinez & Shanken, PLLC

1560 W Warner Rd Suite 200
Gilbert, Arizona 85233
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