2025 Section 179 Limits (Bigger This Year)
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Deduction limit: $2,500,000
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Phase-out begins: $4,000,000 of total qualifying purchases (dollar-for-dollar reduction above this)
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Placed-in-service deadline: December 31, 2025
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SUV cap (≤14,000 lbs GVWR): $31,300 for 2025
These higher limits reflect 2025 law changes; the SUV cap is from the IRS’s 2025 guidance. (irs.gov)
Should You Take the Section 179 Deduction?
If you’re buying machinery, tools, vehicles, or software for business use (>50%), Section 179 often delivers the largest, fastest tax benefit by pulling deductions forward into the current year—freeing cash to reinvest. (Remember: the 179 deduction generally can’t exceed your taxable business income; excess may carry forward.) (irs.gov)
What About Leased Equipment?
Many financed purchases (and certain capital-type leases) can still qualify for Section 179, provided the asset is placed in service in 2025. Operating-style rentals usually don’t get expensed under 179 (you deduct rent instead). (MyLittleSalesman.com)
When Should You Avoid Using Section 179?
If you expect much higher income next year, spreading deductions (regular MACRS or using bonus depreciation strategically) may be better. Also, very large buyers should watch the phase-out—179 starts shrinking once 2025 purchases exceed $4M. (U.S. Bank)
Bonus Depreciation in 2025 (Separate from 179)
Alongside Section 179, bonus depreciation (§168(k)) applies to many of the same assets and can further expense costs after you apply 179. For 2025, recent law reinstated 100% bonus depreciation for qualified property acquired and placed in service after Jan 19, 2025. A transitional election lets some taxpayers use 40% or 60% bonus instead (useful if you want to smooth income). Property placed in service Jan 1–19, 2025 generally uses 40% bonus. Work with your tax pro to coordinate 179 and bonus for your mix of assets and income. (Thomson Reuters Tax)
Practical Tips for 2025
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Plan install dates: You only get 2025 deductions if the asset is placed in service by 12/31/2025.
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Document business use: Assets must be used >50% for business; track usage.
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Mind vehicles: Special dollar limits apply to certain SUVs and light vehicles (see the $31,300 cap).
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State differences: Some states don’t fully conform to federal 179/bonus rules—check your state. (irs.gov)
Act by December 31, 2025. Buy and place eligible equipment in service this year and you may deduct up to $2.5M under Section 179, with 100% bonus depreciation available on many remaining costs. Ask us about financing to keep cash flow strong while cutting your 2025 tax bill. (U.S. Bank)