http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8910.pdf

The IRS has released the form 8910 Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit.
Also listed are the maximum credits for the 2008 models.

Anyone done this yet. Does the IRS require any proof that I actually own a hybrid. Do you need to send a copy of the vehicle purchase agreement? registration? window sticker? what?

I bought my civic hybrid in May and just sold it 2 days ago. I obviously want to take the credit but just want to see what corresponding paperwork I may or may not need to turn in.

Thanks Guys.

Dave

There's nothing you have to send in with form 8910. But as with almost all of your deductions and credits on your tax forms, the onus is on you to prove that you actually earned the credit or deduction if you ever get audited.

I'd just throw a backup copy of the purchase agreement in your file with your other tax paperwork so you don't have to go digging for it somewhere else in case you do ever get audited, but no need to do anything more than that.

I think I'll just photocopy the purchase agreement and sent it in so there's no issues later.

If you sell the car before 3 years is up, you have to refund a portion of the credit.

Are you sure? That's the first I've heard of that. With a little bit of web-searching, I can't find that anywhere. Could you please reference the IRS publication where it says this?

Yeah and if you buy something off the internet you're supposed to report that so you can pay your state's sales tax on it. LOL!

Don't feel bad about not complying with the tax code. It is so complex its complexity alone is a valid defense to avoid criminal prosecution unless its blatant. The IRS only audits ~1-1.5% of all returns.

People that worry about audits really have no idea the antics the wealthy use to reduce or eliminate theirs, which when explained in plain English most people would be amazed they're actually semi-legal.

Now if you engage in blatant fraud then you will do more than just pay back taxes and penalties, but thats a different story.

I just bought a hybrid, do I have to wait until I file my taxes next year to send in the 8910, or can I just send it in now for the rebate?

IF you bought it NEW (put it into service) in 2008, you'll wait until next January when you file your 2008 taxes.
If you bought it USED, you do not get the credit, the original owner did.

Steve

STOP terrorism - Drive a HYBRID

Vehicles:
350 miles a week ------------ 2006 HCH II, Magnetic Pearl, w/NAVI (born on May 25, 2006)
350 miles a month ---------- 2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6
350 miles a year (for now) - 1986 Mercedes 560SL