You should claim the new clean vehicle credit in the tax year that the vehicle is placed in service, which means the tax year that includes the date you take delivery of the vehicle. This is explicitly stated in the IRS guidelines and FAQs.
For example, if you order a new clean vehicle in 2023 but do not receive it until 2024, you would claim the credit on your 2024 tax return, as that is the year the vehicle is placed in service.
This rule applies to vehicles purchased on or after August 16, 2022. If you entered into a written binding contract to buy a new clean vehicle after December 31, 2021, and before August 16, 2022, but took possession on or after August 16, 2022, you must claim the credit on a tax return for tax year 2022. Depending on the date the vehicle is delivered, you can claim the credit on your original, superseding, or amended 2022 tax return.
It is important to note that a vehicle's eligibility for the new clean vehicle credit may change as certain eligibility criteria vary based on when the taxpayer takes delivery of the vehicle. Therefore, the specific requirements applicable at the time of delivery will determine the eligibility for the credit.
Sources:
§ 30D. Clean vehicle credit
Instructions for Form 8936 (2023)
FS-2023-29
FS-2023-22
FS-2023-8
FS-2024-14
