Buying Model Y for wife...can she redeem tax credit?

[N3RVOUS]

Hello -- Current M3 LR RWD owner, looking to buy my wife a Model Y. She qualifies for the tax credit if we file separately, but not if we're filing jointly. I'd like to purchase the car and give it to her on her birthday.

I'm trying to figure out if I can buy the car, with financing, and register it in my name (so that it's a surprise to her), but still have her eligible for the tax credit, since it will be her car and daily driver. Not sure if it matters, but here's what Tesla says about the registration and loans:

Can I register my car with two names, but only take out a loan in one name?

No. Your registration must match the names on the loan for your vehicle.

 

[ItsNotAboutTheMoney]

What matters is who is on the title, but Tesla's system probably requires borrowers, registrant and title holders to be the same.

Topic A — Frequently Asked Questions About the Eligibility Rules for the New Clean Vehicle Credit | Internal Revenue Service

New Clean Vehicle Credit, Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Credit and Credit For Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicles Frequently Asked Questions Topic A — Eligibility Rules for the New Clean Vehicle Credit

www.irs.gov