Get pre-approved at PenFed/NFCU/DCU, force the dealer to beat it or lose the sale.
Dealer 'F&I' markup on financing is one of the biggest hidden profit centers — typical rate markup 1–2.5% above buy-rate. Get pre-approved at a credit union (PenFed, NFCU (if eligible), DCU, Alliant) at their published rate (typically 60–120 bps below bank average), walk into dealer with the check in hand. Dealer either beats it (revealing the true buy rate) or you use the CU. Also enables you to negotiate the CAR price separately from financing.
Click Generate advisory deep dive for mechanics, IRC citations, a step-by-step execution plan, a worked numeric example on your profile, costs, risks, and this-week actions.
6,000+ lb SUV/truck — deduct nearly the full price year 1.
Dedicated fuel cards with 25¢/gal rebates, 30-day float, and no personal guarantee.
Stack app rebates + fuel card + rewards card for 40–60¢/gal off.
Owner-operators get 20–60¢/gal off diesel via fleet fuel networks — no fee.
Write off up to 100% of a business vehicle over 6,000 lb GVWR in Year 1.
Lease deducts 100% of payments; buy deducts depreciation — pick by term and use.
Lease any EV and get the full $7,500 credit — no income cap, no assembly rules.
30% of purchase price up to $4,000 on qualifying used EVs from a licensed dealer.