As we wind down from the chaos of the holidays and get back into our daily routines, we are about to be thrown back into chaos and stress. Tax season is upon us New Jersey! That’s right; we are coming up on that time of year when we sort through all of our receipts, itemize all our spending and file all that paper. Well, don’t forget to include your receipt for that new plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle you purchased; it will earn you some credit when you file your taxes.

Although tax credits for hybrid, diesel and natural gas vehicles expired as of December 31, 2010, you are still eligible for a credit if you have purchased a new plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle within the past year. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, you may be entitled to a tax credit of up to $7,500 based on your vehicle’s battery capacity. In order to qualify for a tax credit your vehicle must meet the following requirements.

• The vehicle has to be made by a manufacturer.
• The vehicle must be used as it is intended.
• The vehicle’s GVWR or gross vehicle weight rating may not exceed 14,000 lbs.
• The vehicle must be new.
• The vehicle is used by the buyer and not resold
• The vehicle is driven mainly in the United States.
• The vehicle must be bought during or after 2010.

For a more detailed explanation and extended list of criteria, please visit www.fueleconomy.gov. So as you sit down to prepare your taxes with that large pile of paper in front of you, don’t forget to file for your vehicle’s tax credit. And don’t forget to stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. We would love to hear how big a tax credit you got New Jersey!