How to claim your electric vehicle charging station tax credit

The market for electric vehicles (EVs) is booming in the U.S. thanks in part to recent tax credit expansions to help offset the costs for many consumers and businesses.

 

These tax credits do more than just reduce the price tag of new and used electric vehicles. They also provide significant savings for the purchase and installation of EV charging equipment. The rules can get complicated, though, leaving many taxpayers to wonder “How do I claim the EV charger tax credit?”

 

To answer that, you’ll need to understand what the EV charging station credit is, what type of equipment and installations are eligible, and the forms and documentation you’ll need to apply. Read on to learn how to claim the electric vehicle charging station tax credit.

 

What is the EV charger tax credit?

The best way to save on your EV charging installation is through the federal tax credit known as the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. This credit has been around for a while, but it was expanded and modified by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

 

The federal EV charger tax credit applies to residents and businesses that install qualifying electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) on their property. Qualifying installations can receive a 30% tax credit for the cost of equipment and installation—for up to $1,000 for residents and $30,000 for businesses. However, the specifics vary depending on when you install the equipment.

 

• For EVSE installed before Jan. 1, 2023: The equipment must be installed within the U.S., placed in service during the tax year, and initially used by the taxpayer applying for the credit. Residents must also install the equipment at their primary residence.
• For installations on or after Jan. 1, 2023: Eligible equipment changes slightly. Qualifying EVSE includes bidirectional charging devices and charging stations for two- and three-wheeled vehicles. However, only EVSE installed in low-income or non-urban areas, as defined by U.S. Census criteria, qualify for the credit in 2023 and beyond.

 

This credit is separate from and works concurrently with the current tax credit for EV purchases, which was also extended and expanded under the Inflation Reduction Act. In other words, if you purchase a qualifying EV and install qualifying EVSE during the same tax year, you can apply for both credits. Neither credit is refundable, so you won’t receive more money back than what you owe in federal taxes for the year you made the purchases.

 

How to claim the EV charger tax credit

Since this is a federal tax credit, it won’t take effect automatically when you purchase or install EVSE at your home or business. Instead, you’ll need to file your taxes for the year you purchased and installed the equipment. Here’s how it works.

 

1. Purchase and install EV charging equipment

Any EV charging station is eligible for the credit if it meets the criteria outlined above. You’ll need to purchase a charger, install it, and activate it within the specified tax year to claim the credit. Be sure to keep your equipment receipts and installer invoices to submit with your tax return.

 

2. Prepare your tax return and fill out form 8911 or 3800

You’ll apply for the credit at tax time, which is April of the year after you purchase and install your EVSE (unless you file an extension). For tax year 2022, residents, partnerships, and S corporations should fill out IRS form 8911 with their annual tax return. Other businesses can claim the EV charger tax credit on IRS form 3800. The IRS will release new tax forms for 2023 and beyond.

 

3. File your taxes and claim your credit

Finally, you’ll need to file your taxes to formally claim the credit. Submit your personal or business tax return, along with the appropriate forms, receipts, and remaining taxes owed, to the IRS by the tax deadline.

 

The credit will reduce your taxable income up to the amount for which you qualify. If you’re eligible for a refund for overpayment, you’ll receive it in the mail or by direct deposit, depending on which method you select. Again, you will not be refunded more than what you owed in taxes before claiming the credit.

 

Don’t forget to explore other EV tax credits

It’s important to note that the federal electric vehicle charging station tax credit is only one incentive available to help you reduce the cost of EVSE. Several states and local municipalities offer their own incentives and rebates, as well. For instance, businesses in Washington state may be eligible for an additional 50% tax credit on the purchase of commercial EVSE.

 

Additionally, many utility companies offer significant rebates for customers who purchase EVs and charging equipment. These incentives are typically stackable, meaning you can take advantage of as many as are available in your area. All together, they can add up to substantial savings for residents and businesses.

 

Save on your JuiceBox charger

There’s never been a better time to buy an EV and install charging equipment for your new car, and Enel X Way offers a range of chargers to meet your needs. All JuiceBox^® and JuiceBox Pro chargers are eligible for the federal EV charger tax credit, as long as your installation meets the required qualifications for your tax year.

 

With JuiceBox chargers, the savings don’t stop with your tax credit. Our smart EV chargers allow you to schedule charging times and optimize your charging sessions to take advantage of off-peak energy savings. Level 2 JuiceBox chargers can recharge up to nine times faster than standard Level 1 charging, and our Level 3 JuicePump^™ chargers for commercial use can refill an EV up to 80% in as little as 20 minutes.

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