Section 179 Vehicle Depreciation Calculator
Calculate Section 179 vehicle depreciation deduction for business vehicles. See limits for SUVs, trucks, and passenger cars in 2026.
Quick Take
This calculator gives you real-time estimates based on standard financial formulas. Modify any input and results update instantly — no calculate button needed.
Primary Result
Section 179 Deduction
What This Calculator Does
Calculate Section 179 vehicle depreciation deduction for business vehicles. See limits for SUVs, trucks, and passenger cars in 2026.
How the Calculation Works
Who Should Use This Tool
This calculator is designed for anyone looking to understand the financial implications of commercial decisions. Whether you're a first-time buyer, comparing options, or planning for the future, these estimates help you make informed choices.
Important Considerations
Remember that actual terms, rates, and costs will vary by lender, your credit score, and current market conditions. These calculators provide educational estimates only and do not constitute professional financial advice. Always compare multiple offers and consult a financial professional before making decisions.
How the math works
Section 179 allows a business to deduct the cost of qualifying property in the year it is placed in service, subject to a taxable-income limitation and a phase-out above the annual investment ceiling. Bonus depreciation is a separate provision. Car, SUV and truck limits differ, and this tool applies the statutory structure rather than giving tax advice.
How to use this calculator
- Confirm the vehicle is used more than 50% for business, which is the threshold for Section 179 treatment.
- Establish the business-use percentage, since the deduction is limited to that share.
- Identify the vehicle's GVWR, because heavier vehicles fall under different deduction limits.
- Check your taxable business income, because Section 179 cannot create a loss.
- Compare Section 179 against bonus depreciation and regular MACRS depreciation.
- Confirm the current year's statutory limits with a tax professional before relying on any figure.
Sources & authoritative references
The definitions, formulas, and benchmarks behind this tool are drawn from the public, primary sources listed below. We do not cite figures we cannot verify.
- Publication 946: How to Depreciate Property — Internal Revenue Service
- Publication 463: Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses — Internal Revenue Service
Frequently asked questions
What is the Section 179 limit for vehicles in 2026?
Which vehicles qualify for full Section 179?
What is bonus depreciation in 2026?
What's the business use requirement?
Should I use Section 179 or bonus depreciation?
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Related Guides
Section 179 Vehicle Deduction 2026: Which Work Trucks
Section 179 lets businesses deduct up to $31,300 for heavy SUVs/trucks over 6,000 lbs GVWR in 2026, with bonus depreciation stacked on top — but you need a mileage log.
When Is Car Loan Interest Tax-Deductible?
For most people, car loan interest is a personal expense and not deductible. The exceptions are narrow: genuine business use, certain self-employment, and specific situations that require good records.
Business Car Lease Tax Benefits: Write-Offs, Section 179
A business lease often lets you deduct the entire payment as an operating expense — simpler than depreciation. But luxury leases face an "inclusion amount," and you must allocate personal vs business miles.