The Tax Side of Dealing in Collector Cars

The Tax Side of Dealing in Collector Cars

The tax side of dealing in collector cars can be quite interesting.  Are you a collector? People collect all kinds of different things, including stamps, art, sports cards, jewelry, coins and cars to name just a few. Speaking of collectors, collectibles can be a great hobby but they can also draw the attention of the IRS, one of the greatest collectors of all time.

Collector Cars Are Not Tax-Free

Cars, particularly classic ones, have always been a popular collectible. However, there several tax issues surrounding collectible cars that you should be aware of. It’s no secret that the IRS loves to make waves with its investigations. Well-to-do car collectors who decide to skimp on their full tax bill are the perfect targets for the IRS to make examples of.

How Much Do You Owe?

So let’s take a look at some of the issues you should know about when collecting cars as well as some tips to make sure you’re paying the proper amount of tax on your collector cars.

Collectible Taxes & Deduction:

  • Capital gains tax on collectibles: Ordinarily, capital gains on property that has been held for at least one year are subject to either a 0%, 15% or 20% tax rate depending on your income, however gains on collectibles such as cars are given a special 28% tax rate[1].
  • When you sell a collector car you can also write off some of the expenses from your profit and thus lighten the tax burden. Any money you spend to restore or sell the car can be subtracted from your profit. However, make sure you keep good records.
  • When it comes to purchasing a collector car, you will also be liable for state sales tax on that car if you drive it away. If you have it shipped somewhere else, then you will have to pay sales tax to the state where you have it shipped.
  • One option some collectors try to pursue is to obtain a dealer’s license. This will allow them to avoid any state sales tax altogether. However, be careful, if you are actually a collector and not really a dealer, then you would actually be making a false claim to your state, which could land you in hot water. On top of that, you might have difficulty insuring your vehicles.

More Forms

You will also need to be prepared to fill out additional forms with your tax return when you have capital gains and/or losses. All of the important details of the sale of your vehicle will need to be reported on Form 8949. Then, combined with your capital losses, the information will be put on Schedule D where you will need to tally your net gain or loss.

We hope you found this updated article about the tax side of dealing in collector cars helpful.  If you have questions or need expert tax or family office advice that’s refreshingly objective (we never sell investments), please contact us or visit our Family office page  or our website at www.GROCO.com.  Unfortunately, we no longer give advice to other tax professionals gratis.

To receive our free newsletter, contact us here.

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more updates.

Considerately yours,

GROCO, GROCO Tax, GROCO Technology, GROCO Advisory Services, GROCO Consulting Services, GROCO Relationship Services, GROCO Consulting/Advisory Services, GROCO Family Office Wealth, and GROCO Family Office Services.

[1] https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc409#:~:text=Net%20capital%20gains%20from%20selling,at%20a%20maximum%2025%25%20rate.

Posted in
Positive Work Environment

Positive Work Environment

Positive Work Environment Written by Traci Bullock. Creating a positive work environment is essential for the success of any organization or company. A positive work environment not only increases productivity and employee satisfaction, it also attracts and retains top talent. In this article, we will discuss key elements of creating a positive work place: making…

Unlocking Success with Lynn Thomas CEO of Thomas Consulting One Great Idea at a Time

Unlocking Success with Lynn Thomas CEO of Thomas Consulting One Great Idea at a Time

See Lynn Thomas‘ Recent Interview with Alan Olsen: about unlocking success one idea at a time, video here: https://youtu.be/0VFOWFl3wqk Lynn Thomas has been helping clients unlock success, one idea at a time by executing tailored client presentations that deliver extraordinary client experiences. Her firm specializes in creating and implementing plans based on new tax laws…

Pushing the Boundaries of Science and Technology: Insight from Dr. Lee Hood

Pushing the Boundaries of Science and Technology since 1973: Terrific Insight from Dr. Lee Hood

See Dr. Lee Hood‘s recent interview with Alan Olsen: about pushing the boundaries of science and technology: https://youtu.be/60DDZ0MJ8QE Dr. Lee M. Hood is best known for his development of technologies which have enabled the advancement of predictive, preventative medicine. Dr Hood’s journey began at a young age, when he was an assistant professor of molecular immunology…

Ali Nasser: Building A Successful E-commerce Business From The Ground Up

Ali Nasser: Building A Successful E-commerce Business From The Ground Up

See Ali Nasser’s interview with Alan Olsen: about Building A Successful E-commerce Business From The Ground Up on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJyKKqTCaBM Ali Nasser is a serial entrepreneur who has been helping business owners for nearly twenty years. He understands the legacy dilemma and financial freedom that many business owners face when it comes to their life…