Can I write-off a company vehicle?
John Hall
Updated on March 31, 2026
Vehicle Business Use A business can write off the expenses of a business-owned vehicle and take a depreciation deduction to write down the value of the vehicle. Only the portion of the vehicle use that is for business purposes can be counted when determining tax deductions.
Are company vehicles tax deductible?
The use of a company vehicle is a valuable fringe benefit for owners and employees of small businesses. This benefit results in tax deductions for the employer as well as tax breaks for the owners and employees using the cars. Even better, recent tax law changes and IRS rules make the perk more valuable than before.
Can you write-off equipment as a business expense?
You can deduct the cost of the equipment you buy for your business. You can deduct the entire cost in a single year using a provision of the tax code called Section 179. You can use this deduction only if you use the property more than 50 percent of time for business each year.
How much can you write-off for business vehicle?
For new and pre-owned vehicles put into use in 2020 (assuming the vehicle was used 100% for business): The maximum first-year depreciation write-off is $10,100, plus up to an additional $8,000 in bonus depreciation.
How much of a car can you write off for business?
The business-use percentage is 90%. If you use the actual expenses method, you could deduct $4,500 (90% of $5,000). If you use the standard mileage rate, your 2020 deduction would be $9,315. In this case, the standard mileage method gives you the bigger tax benefit.
How much of your cell phone can you deduct for business?
If you’re self-employed and you use your cellphone for business, you can claim the business use of your phone as a tax deduction. If 30 percent of your time on the phone is spent on business, you could legitimately deduct 30 percent of your phone bill.
Can you write off a car as a business expense?
This rule applies if you’re a sole proprietor and use your car for business and personal reasons. If you’re self-employed and purchase a vehicle exclusively for business reasons, you may be able to write off some of the costs. Keep in mind, this is more in the line of a company car, not a car that you use for personal reasons, too.
How to write off equipment purchases for small businesses?
This means business owners can take the deduction all at once in one year, rather than depreciate that expense. Another option to consider when you write off equipment purchases is De Minimis Sae Harboring Expensing.
Can you write off the cost of an SUV on taxes?
Automobile Tax Deduction Rule You can only write-off 100% if the vehicle is used 100% for business AND you buy it brand new from the dealer (no private party used vehicle). It has to be brand new. The amount on the example factors in a brand new SUV over 6,000 lbs.
How is a business vehicle depreciated on a tax return?
This deduction lets you write off your investment in a business vehicle, which is also called “basis.” Multiply the basis amount by the percentage of business use of the vehicle to determine how much you can depreciate each year. If you use a car 100 percent for business, you may depreciate its entire basis.