⚠️ Federal Tax Credits (EXPIRED September 30, 2025)
⚠️ EXPIRED: Federal EV tax credits expired on September 30, 2025. The information below is for historical reference. If you purchased your EV before September 30, 2025, you may still be eligible to claim these credits on your tax return.
New EV Federal Credit
Up to $7,500
❌ EXPIRED SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
Historical Information:
- Vehicle must be assembled in North America
- MSRP: $55,000 cap (sedans), $80,000 (SUVs/trucks)
- Income limit: $150K single, $300K joint filers
- Point-of-sale discount was available at dealers
If you purchased before Sept 30, 2025, you may still claim this credit on your tax return.
Used EV Federal Credit
Up to $4,000
❌ EXPIRED SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
Historical Information:
- Vehicle must be at least 2 years old
- Sale price: $25,000 maximum
- Income limit: $75K single, $150K joint filers
- One-owner limit (no multiple used credits)
If you purchased before Sept 30, 2025, you may still claim this credit on your tax return.
💡 Important: If you purchased or leased an EV before September 30, 2025, you may still be eligible to claim the federal tax credit when filing your 2025 tax return. Contact a tax professional or visit fueleconomy.gov for details.
🏛️ Texas State Incentive Programs
LDPLIP Grant (Light-Duty Motor Vehicle Purchase or Lease Incentive Program)
TCEQ LDPLIP Grant
Up to $2,500
Administered by: Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)
Program Type: Post-purchase grant (first-come, first-served)
Deadline: Applications accepted through March 6, 2026, or until funds run out
Eligibility Requirements:
- New light-duty vehicle powered by electricity
- Vehicle must include plug-in hybrid with battery ≥4 kWh
- Purchased or leased on or after September 1, 2025
- Title and registration must be in Texas
- Available to individuals, businesses, and organizations
Grant Amounts:
- Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV): Up to $2,500
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric (PHEV ≥4 kWh): Up to $2,500
- CNG/Propane Vehicles: Up to $5,000
⚠️ Important: LDPLIP grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Limited funding is available, so apply as soon as possible after purchasing your EV. The 2,000 rebates from the previous 2023 program were quickly depleted.
Additional Texas State Benefits
No Emissions Testing
$25.50/year saved
Since September 1, 2023, vehicles powered exclusively by electricity are exempt from state motor vehicle emissions inspections.
- Saves approximately $25.50 annually
- No inspection hassle
- Permanent exemption
EV Registration Fees
$400 / $200
Note: Texas charges additional EV registration fees:
- First-time registration: $400
- Annual renewal: $200
- Standard vehicle fees still apply ($50.75)
- Fees fund State Highway Fund
⚡ Texas Utility Rebate Programs
Texas utilities offer some of the best EV charging rebates in the nation, with programs available for both residential and commercial installations. These rebates can significantly reduce the cost of installing a Level 2 home charger.
Major Utility Programs
| Utility Company | Service Area | Residential Rebate | Commercial Rebate | Special Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin Energy | Austin metro area | Up to $1,200 (50% of cost) | $3,000 (Level 2) $5,000 (DC Fast) |
Free overnight charging rates 1,600+ public charging ports at $0.09/kWh |
| CPS Energy | San Antonio area | $250 credit + $5/month OR $125 + $10/month |
Commercial programs available | FlexEV Rewards program Free street parking while charging |
| Entergy | Southeast Texas | $250 | $250 (Level 2) $1,500 (DC Fast) |
eTech program |
| SWEPCO | Northeast Texas | $250 | Available upon request | ENERGY STAR certified chargers First-come, first-served |
| United Cooperative | Central Texas | $250 - $500 | Commercial programs available | Various programs available |
| TXU Energy | Deregulated areas | Free charging 7PM-1PM | N/A | Requires telematics data sharing |
Detailed Utility Program Information
Austin Energy - Top Rated
Up to $1,200
Residential Program:
- 50% rebate on charger + installation costs
- Up to $1,200 for OCPP-compliant chargers
- Up to $900 for non-OCPP chargers
- Plug-In EVerywhere℠ network access
Additional Benefits:
- 1,600+ Level 2 ports at $0.09/kWh (~1¢/min)
- DC Fast chargers at $0.21/minute
- Time-of-use rates for off-peak charging
CPS Energy FlexEV Rewards
$250 + $5/mo
Two Program Options:
Option 1: Smart Charging
- $250 one-time bill credit
- $5 monthly credit (ongoing)
- Allows remote charging speed adjustment during peak hours
Option 2: Off-Peak Only
- $125 one-time bill credit
- $10 monthly credit (ongoing)
- Charge only during off-peak hours
Entergy eTech Program
$250
Residential:
- $250 rebate for Level 2 charger purchase and installation
- Covers both equipment and installation costs
Commercial:
- $250 for Level 2 installations
- Up to $1,500 for DC Fast Charging stations
SWEPCO Charger Rebate
$250
Program Details:
- $250 rebate for ENERGY STAR-certified Level 2 chargers
- First-come, first-served basis
- Subject to funding limits
- Must be residential installation
Important: Check funding availability before purchasing equipment.
Check SWEPCO Availability
💡 Pro Tip: Contact your local utility provider even if they're not listed above. Many Texas utilities offer underpublicized EV rebates and time-of-use rates that can significantly reduce your charging costs. Some cooperatives and municipal utilities have programs that aren't widely advertised.
🏠 Home Charging Installation Credits
Federal 30C Charger Credit
Up to $1,000
Residential Credit:
- 30% tax credit on installation costs
- Maximum $1,000 credit
- Covers equipment and installation
- Expires June 30, 2026
Important: This is a tax credit, not a rebate. You'll claim it when filing your federal taxes.
Federal 30C Commercial Credit
Up to $100,000
Business Credit:
- 30% tax credit on installation costs
- Up to $100,000 per charger in qualifying locations
- Available to businesses, non-profits, municipalities
- Must meet geographic requirements
- Expires December 31, 2032
Electrical Panel Upgrade Credit
Up to $600
Home Improvement Credit (25C):
- 30% credit on electrical panel upgrade costs
- Maximum $600 credit
- Must support EV charging
- Expires December 31, 2025
Note: Have a qualified electrician assess your panel capacity before installing a charger.
🏙️ Local City & Regional Programs
City of Denton - GreenSense Program
Denton GreenSense Energy Efficiency Rebate
Up to $1,500
Available for Denton residents:
- Up to $1,500 rebate for EV or e-bike purchase
- Also covers smart thermostats, HVAC tune-ups, solar installation
- Multiple green upgrades available
- Check with City of Denton for current program status
Free Public Charging in Major Cities
Dallas Free Charging
- 500+ free charging locations throughout Dallas
- Level 2 chargers available
- Significant savings on daily charging costs
Austin Free Charging
- 400+ free charging stations in Austin area
- Austin Energy Plug-In EVerywhere℠ network
- Additional low-cost options at $0.09/kWh
San Antonio Free Parking
- Free street parking for BEVs and PHEVs while charging
- 800+ charging locations in San Antonio-New Braunfels area
- Reduces total cost of ownership
📋 How to Apply for Texas EV Incentives
Step-by-Step Application Process
⚠️ Federal Tax Credit (EXPIRED)
Status: Expired September 30, 2025
Note: If you purchased an EV before September 30, 2025, you may still claim this credit when filing your 2025 tax return. Visit fueleconomy.gov to verify eligibility and get IRS forms.
Step 1: Texas LDPLIP Grant
When: After vehicle purchase and registration in Texas
What you need:
- Proof of purchase or lease (dated Sept 1, 2025 or later)
- Copy of Texas vehicle title and registration
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Dealer Form 2 (signed by dealership representative)
Where to apply: TCEQ LDPLIP Portal
Deadline: March 6, 2026 (or until funds depleted)
Step 2: Utility Charger Rebates
When: Before or after charger installation (check specific program)
What you need:
- Proof of EV ownership (registration or lease agreement)
- Charger purchase receipt
- Installation invoice from licensed electrician
- Utility account number
- Photos of installed charger (some programs)
Where to apply: Your utility company's website or customer service
Timeline: Varies by utility, typically 4-8 weeks for rebate
Step 3: Federal Charger Tax Credit (30C)
When: When filing your federal tax return
What you need:
- IRS Form 8911 (Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit)
- Receipts for charger and installation costs
- Installation address (must be your primary residence)
Deadline: June 30, 2026 for installations
Note: This is a non-refundable tax credit, not a rebate
⚠️ Important Tips:
- Apply for LDPLIP grants as soon as possible - they're first-come, first-served and funding is limited
- Get Dealer Form 2 signed at the dealership when you purchase/lease your vehicle - much harder to get later
- Check with your utility BEFORE purchasing a charger - some programs require pre-approval
- Keep all receipts and documentation for at least 3 years
- Consider consulting a tax professional to maximize all available credits
💰 Income & Eligibility Requirements
| Program | Income Limit (Single) | Income Limit (Joint) | Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal New EV Credit (EXPIRED) | $150,000 | $300,000 | Expired Sept 30, 2025 |
| Federal Used EV Credit (EXPIRED) | $75,000 | $150,000 | Expired Sept 30, 2025 |
| LDPLIP Grant | No income limit | No income limit | Texas resident, vehicle registered in TX |
| Utility Rebates | No income limit | No income limit | Must be utility customer with EV |
| 30C Charger Credit | No income limit | No income limit | Must own primary residence |
✅ Good News for Texas Families: The LDPLIP grant and utility rebates have NO income restrictions, making them accessible to all Texas residents. The expired federal tax credits had income limits, but current available programs do not.
💵 Maximum Savings Example (October 2025)
🎯 How a Texas Family Can Save $4,700+
Scenario: Austin family purchases a new 2025 electric SUV for $60,000 and installs a Level 2 home charger in October 2025
| Incentive | Amount | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Federal New EV Credit | $7,500 | Expired Sept 30, 2025 |
| LDPLIP Grant | $2,500 | Applied after purchase and registration |
| Austin Energy Charger Rebate | $1,200 | 50% of charger + installation costs |
| Federal 30C Charger Credit | $1,000 | Claimed on federal tax return (expires June 30, 2026) |
| Total Immediate Savings | $4,700 | |
|
Additional Ongoing Savings: • No emissions testing: ~$25.50/year • Lower fuel costs: ~$1,200/year vs gas • Lower maintenance: ~$500/year • Austin Energy off-peak charging rates |
||
Bottom Line: After incentives, this $60,000 EV effectively costs $55,300, plus ongoing annual savings of ~$1,725. Over 5 years, total savings exceed $13,000!
Note: Federal EV tax credits expired on September 30, 2025. If you had purchased before that date, you could have saved an additional $7,500, bringing total savings to $12,200.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still get federal EV tax credits in Texas?
No, federal EV tax credits (both the $7,500 for new EVs and $4,000 for used EVs) expired on September 30, 2025. If you purchased or leased an EV before that date, you may still be eligible to claim the credit when filing your 2025 tax return. However, the Texas LDPLIP grant ($2,500) is still available through March 6, 2026, and utility rebates for home chargers remain available. The federal 30C charger installation credit also continues until June 30, 2026.
Can I stack the LDPLIP grant with utility rebates?
Yes! You can combine the Texas LDPLIP grant (up to $2,500) with utility rebates for home chargers (up to $1,200 from Austin Energy, for example). These are all separate programs with different funding sources. Just make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for each program and apply before funding runs out.
Is the LDPLIP grant first-come, first-served?
Yes, the LDPLIP grant is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis with limited funding. Previous iterations of the program (like the 2023 version with 2,000 rebates) were depleted quickly. The current program runs through March 6, 2026, or until funds run out, whichever comes first. We strongly recommend applying as soon as possible after purchasing your EV.
Do I need to be an Austin Energy customer to get the charger rebate?
Yes, utility rebates are only available to customers of that specific utility. If you live in Austin, you can access Austin Energy's generous up to $1,200 rebate. If you're in San Antonio, CPS Energy offers the FlexEV Rewards program. Check with YOUR local utility provider to see what programs they offer - many Texas utilities have EV charging rebates that aren't widely advertised.
Are used EVs eligible for the LDPLIP grant?
No, the LDPLIP grant is only available for NEW light-duty vehicles powered by electricity. However, used EVs may qualify for the federal used EV tax credit of up to $4,000 (until September 30, 2025). The used EV must be at least 2 years old, priced at $25,000 or less, and you must meet the income requirements ($75K single, $150K joint filers).
Does Texas charge extra registration fees for EVs?
Yes. Since September 1, 2023, Texas charges an additional $400 first-time registration fee for new EVs, followed by a $200 annual renewal fee. These fees contribute to the State Highway Fund to offset the gas tax revenue that EV owners don't pay. Standard vehicle registration fees ($50.75) still apply on top of these EV-specific fees.
Can I get the federal tax credit if I lease instead of buy?
Yes! When you lease, the leasing company (usually the manufacturer's finance arm) receives the federal tax credit and often passes the savings to you through lower monthly payments or a reduced down payment. This can actually be advantageous if you don't have enough tax liability to claim the full $7,500 credit. The LDPLIP grant also applies to leases, as long as the vehicle is titled and registered in Texas.
Are there income limits for the LDPLIP grant?
No! The LDPLIP grant has NO income restrictions. This makes it accessible to all Texas residents, regardless of income level. In contrast, the federal EV tax credits do have income limits ($150K single/$300K joint for new EVs, $75K/$150K for used EVs). The LDPLIP grant is available to individuals, businesses, corporations, organizations, and government entities.
What's the best way to find free EV charging in Texas?
Texas has over 1,300 free charging locations, with Dallas (500+) and Austin (400+) leading the way. Use apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, or the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center to find free and paid charging stations. Many shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels offer free Level 2 charging while you shop or dine. San Antonio also offers free street parking for BEVs and PHEVs while charging.
Should I install a home charger or rely on public charging?
Most EV owners find that a home charger is essential for convenience and cost savings. With utility rebates (up to $1,200 from Austin Energy) and federal tax credits (30% up to $1,000), the out-of-pocket cost can be quite reasonable. Home charging typically costs $0.09-0.13 per kWh in Texas, compared to $0.20-0.50 per kWh at public stations. Plus, you'll never wait for an available charger or worry about range on busy days. If you can install one, we highly recommend it.
🔗 Official Resources & Applications
Texas State Resources
Federal Resources
Utility Providers
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