Every year as December approaches, many people think about finishing projects, planning vacations, or setting goals for the new year. But for business owners, entrepreneurs, and truck enthusiasts, there’s another major opportunity hiding in plain sight — the chance to save thousands through smart year-end vehicle purchases.
At Lifted Trucks, we’ve seen more buyers than ever take advantage of end-of-year tax benefits, especially those who use their trucks for business purposes. With programs like IRS Section 179, special depreciation rules, and rising vehicle prices expected in 2026, acting before year-end can deliver serious financial advantages.
Understanding Section 179: Your Key to Big Savings
Section 179 of the U.S. tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment or vehicles bought and put into service during the tax year. In simple terms, if you buy a truck in 2025 and use it for business, you can potentially write off a huge portion — or even the full cost — of that purchase.
Let’s say you purchase a $75,000 lifted truck before December 31. If it qualifies under Section 179, you could deduct that full amount from your taxable income for 2025, reducing your tax bill by tens of thousands depending on your tax bracket.
The key is timing: the vehicle must be purchased and placed into service before the end of the calendar year. That’s why November and December are often the busiest months for savvy buyers who know how to turn their purchases into strategic financial moves.
What Kind of Trucks Qualify?
Not every vehicle qualifies under Section 179, but many lifted trucks do — especially those that meet the IRS’s “6,000-pound GVWR” threshold. GVWR stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, and the IRS uses it to determine which vehicles are considered heavy enough for full deduction eligibility.
Here are a few examples of models commonly sold at Lifted Trucks that meet or exceed this threshold:
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Ford F-150, F-250, and F-350
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Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD
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GMC Sierra 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD
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Toyota Tundra
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Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500
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Jeep Gladiator Rubicon and select Grand Cherokee models
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Lexus GX and Toyota Land Cruiser (for business use cases)
Because lifted trucks often feature upgraded components and larger builds, many models naturally meet Section 179’s qualifying criteria.
Bonus Depreciation: An Extra Layer of Savings
In addition to Section 179, there’s another tool in the tax toolbox — bonus depreciation.
Bonus depreciation lets you deduct a percentage of the cost of qualifying equipment that isn’t covered under Section 179. While the exact percentage changes over time, combining both deductions can often allow business owners to write off nearly the entire purchase price of their vehicle in the first year.
These tax benefits are especially powerful for independent contractors, tradespeople, small business owners, real estate professionals, and entrepreneurs who use their vehicles for daily operations, client travel, or hauling equipment.
Why Year-End Timing Matters
Tax savings aren’t the only reason why buying before December 31 makes sense. There are several additional advantages that come with closing the deal before year-end:
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Tax Year Cutoff: To qualify for 2025 deductions, the vehicle must be in service before the year ends. Waiting until January could push those savings back another full year.
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Model-Year Transition: Dealers often clear out inventory to make room for the next model year, which can mean significant discounts or better financing terms.
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Rate Protection: Interest rates are expected to remain high heading into 2026, making now a smarter time to lock in better financing while maximizing deductions.
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Inflation and Pricing: Truck prices have steadily risen year-over-year, especially for high-performance or lifted models. Buying early protects against future price increases.
The combination of tax advantages, potential discounts, and financing incentives makes Q4 one of the most strategic times of the year to buy a lifted truck.
Business Use vs. Personal Use
It’s important to understand that Section 179 is designed for vehicles used at least 50% for business purposes. That means you must be able to show that your truck serves a functional role in your business operations — for example, transporting equipment, visiting job sites, or client meetings.
However, for many Lifted Trucks customers who own businesses, the lines between business and lifestyle often blend seamlessly. Whether it’s a contractor hauling tools, a rancher managing land, or a real estate agent making an impression at showings, the right lifted truck can serve both as a business asset and a personal statement.
How to Take Advantage Before It’s Too Late
If you’re thinking about upgrading or expanding your fleet, now is the time to act. Here’s what to do before December 31:
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Consult Your Tax Professional: Confirm your eligibility for Section 179 and bonus depreciation based on your specific business structure and tax bracket.
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Choose a Qualifying Truck: Work with the Lifted Trucks team to find models that meet GVWR and usage requirements.
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Complete the Purchase and Delivery: The truck must be placed into service before December 31 to qualify for the 2025 tax year.
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Keep Detailed Records: Maintain your bill of sale, financing documents, and proof of business use for tax filing.
The Financial Advantage of Buying from Lifted Trucks
At Lifted Trucks, every vehicle is professionally built, inspected, and documented — which means your purchase comes with detailed records that help verify build quality and vehicle classification for tax purposes. Our team can also help you identify models that best align with your business needs and financial goals.
We stock a wide range of lifted trucks and SUVs that qualify under Section 179, including heavy-duty diesel trucks, ¾-ton and 1-ton workhorses, and high-performance 4x4s. Whether you need a truck that works hard on the job or one that doubles as your adventure vehicle, our inventory offers both form and function.
Final Thoughts: Turn Your Next Truck Into a Smart Investment
A lifted truck isn’t just a statement of power and capability — it’s also a financial asset when purchased strategically. By taking advantage of year-end tax incentives, business owners can make a purchase that both enhances their lifestyle and strengthens their bottom line.
Waiting until January means waiting another year for the same benefits. The smartest move is to act now, before December 31, and start 2026 with a truck that’s ready to work for you in every sense of the word.
Don’t wait for next year’s rates, prices, or tax changes — shop Lifted Trucks today and turn your next lifted truck into your smartest investment yet.
Disclaimer
Lifted Trucks is not a tax professional or financial advisor. The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Tax laws and eligibility requirements can vary based on individual circumstances. Always consult with a certified tax professional or financial advisor before making any purchase or claiming any deductions related to vehicle expenses or Section 179.
