← Back to Blog
Tesla HacksSeptember 15, 2025
Tesla Tax Credit Loophole: How to Get $7,500 Even If You Don't Qualify
Tesla Tax Credit Loophole: How to Get $7,500 Even If You Don't Qualify
Hey everyone, Dennis here from DennisCW! If you're into Tesla deal hacking like I am, you're in for a treat. In this blog post, based on my latest video, we're diving into a massive loophole for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, plus some hot tips on Starlink deals, Tesla tinting advice, upcoming EVs, and more. Whether you're shopping for a Tesla or just love staying in the loop, let's get into it.
The $7,500 EV Tax Credit Loophole: Lease and Buy Out
If your income exceeds the limits (like $150K single or $300K married filing jointly based on AGI), you might think you're out of luck for the $7,500 federal tax credit. But there's a clever workaround: lease the vehicle first, then buy it out.
Here's how it works:
- Step 1: Lease a Tesla (or other qualifying EV like Lucid or Rivian). Tesla's website shows a $7,500 lease incentive for deliveries by September 30, 2025. No income limits apply here—the credit gets passed directly to you.
- Step 2: Opt for Tesla Leasing. This is key for simplicity. It's handled through the Tesla app, making the buyout process seamless. Avoid third-party lenders like Santander or Chase if possible—message Tesla to switch to their leasing arm.
- Step 3: Initiate the Lease Buyout. You can do this quickly after leasing. A real story from a viewer in California showed they saved about $5,985 after fees (not the full $7,500, but way better than zero!).
Pro Tip: If you're close to the income threshold, max out 401k or HSA contributions to lower your AGI. Check out our HSA link in the description for savings.
This loophole is a game-changer for high earners. If you're buying a Tesla, use my referral code below for 3 months of Full Self-Driving (FSD) free—it supports the channel too!
Maximize Your Tesla Deal: Checklist and Trade-Ins
Before pulling the trigger on a Tesla, grab our Best Deal Checklist—17 steps to save thousands. Use promo code "YouTube" for 40% off (first 50 people only). Link below.
Trading in? Partner with GiveMeTheVin.com—they beat Tesla's offer by $3,000 for one viewer. Get the max value for your current ride!
Current deals: Model 3 at $299/month, Model Y at $399/month. Stack every incentive you can.
Sponsored: Protect Your Data with Aura
Financing a Tesla? Protect your credit first. With breaches like Bank of America's recent one going unreported for months, your info could be at risk. I use Aura—it scans the dark web, reduces spam calls, removes your data from brokers, and includes $5M identity theft insurance. Try it free for 14 days at aura.com/denniscw.
Starlink Clearance: $89 Kit + First Month Free
SpaceX just slashed the Starlink standard kit to $89 (down from $349!). It's a no-brainer for backups, road trips, or weak Airbnb Wi-Fi. Use my referral for your first month free—link below. Has Starlink saved you in a pinch? Share in the comments!
Don't Tint Your Model Y Roof? Here's Why
Tinting your Tesla? Absolutely do the sides and front for UV protection—it's essential with all that glass. But the roof? If you're getting the refreshed Model Y, skip it. The built-in solar rejection is impressive (I've tested it back-to-back). For older models, consider it.
Recommendations:
- OC Tint Solutions (ask for Jason)
- Unplugged Performance
- 24K Shine
Links below. For hot days, a Joah sunshade works great—use my promo code for a discount!
Upcoming EVs: Lucid's Midsize Lineup in 2026
The EV wars heat up! Lucid plans three midsize vehicles starting late 2026, joining Rivian R2 and Tesla's affordable models. Could we see a $25K Model 2 with a $5K lux package? Exciting times—I'll believe it when I see it, but it's great for competition.
Tesla Delivery Dates and the $7,500 Deadline
Worried about missing September 30 for the tax credit? Tesla rarely misses dates, but if your EDD is close, switch to inventory vehicles. Areas like Maryland have plenty in stock—Tesla pre-shipped to avoid delays. If you're far from factories, act fast. Pro tip: Place a deposit by Sept 30 to potentially lock in the credit, then decide later.
Need accessories? Tesla comes with none. Check Joah for must-haves like phone mounts and organizers—use my code for savings and free shipping over $120.
For floor mats, 3W All-Weather with lifetime warranty—35% off with code "Dennis35".
Giveaway and Shoutouts
Enter to win one of three Tesla robots—I'm shipping them myself! Free entry, multiple allowed. Link below.
Shoutout to viewers: Blueberry, Marius, Tom, Jean, JD, Paris, Mark, Mario, Maurice, and more. Thanks for the likes and comments!
What do you think of the tax loophole? Planning a Tesla purchase? Drop your thoughts below. If this helped, hit like, subscribe, and use those links—it supports the channel. See you in the next one!
Links:
Dennis CW
Tesla enthusiast and EV expert. Sharing tips on maximizing your Tesla ownership experience.