Tariffs and the Automotive Market: Key Implications for Dealerships in 2026
Tariffs have re‑established themselves as one of the most influential variables shaping the automotive retail environment in 2026. While policy decisions occur at the federal level, their downstream effects are increasingly evident across dealership pricing strategies, inventory composition, and consumer behavior. For dealership leadership, tariffs represent
Q2 2026 Used‑Vehicle Market Advisory: Strengthening Trade‑In Strategy
As the automotive market continues to normalize in 2026, one reality has become increasingly clear: used‑vehicle performance is central to dealership profitability and stability. New‑vehicle margins remain compressed, affordability continues to shape buyer behavior, and competition for quality used inventory remains elevated across most markets. Within this
Preparing for Q2: Mid-Year Sales and Tax Strategies for Dealerships
As dealerships move into the second quarter, the pace of the year becomes clearer. First-quarter results often reveal trends in inventory movement, consumer demand, and margin compression that require prompt attention. A disciplined mid-year review gives dealership leaders the opportunity to refine both sales execution and tax positioning before year-end pressu
Are Credit Card Processing Fees Taxable?
More businesses are adding credit card surcharges, convenience fees, swipe fees, or similar charges to offset processing costs. While these charges may feel separate from the product or service being sold, many states view them as part of the taxable sales price. That can lead to confusion for businesses that treat the surcharge as a […]
Auto Loan Interest Deduction: What the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Car Buyers
Recent federal legislation known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” introduced a new, limited deduction for certain auto loan interest. For individuals and families who rely on personal vehicles for work and daily life, this change could influence purchasing and financing decisions. While the provision has generated headlines, the details matter. Eligibility
Smarter Systems. Stronger Results. A Practical Look at Software for Dealerships
Running a dealership today means managing tight margins, inventory swings, staffing gaps, and customers who expect fast answers. Many stores already feel the strain. When systems don’t talk to each other or rely too heavily on manual steps, the pressure builds. We have seen the same pattern in larger industry challenges like supply chain delays. […]
Headlights Newsletter – Q1 2026
The latest issue of Headlights, a publication of the AutoCPA Group, is now available. Click here to access the newsletter.
Year-End Tax Considerations for Dealerships: What to Review Before Closing Out 2025
As dealerships prepare to close their books for 2025, tax strategy becomes just as important as sales performance. The final weeks of the year bring opportunities to reduce tax liability, strengthen financial positions, and enter 2026 with clearer visibility and fewer surprises. But dealership tax planning is complex, with inventory rules, floorplan interest co
Succession Planning in Dealerships: Avoiding Family Feuds and Financial Pitfalls
Succession planning is one of the most important and most sensitive processes a dealership will ever navigate. For many owners, the dealership isn’t just a business; it’s a legacy built over decades, shaped by family involvement, and tied closely to personal identity. That’s exactly why transitions can become complicated, emotional, and at times, contenti
Dealership Fraud Risks You Didn’t See Coming
As 2025 winds down, dealership leaders are reviewing financials, finalizing year-end sales, and preparing for the opportunities ahead. Yet one area often overlooked during this busy season is also one of the most costly: fraud. Fraud today rarely shows up as an obvious breach or a dramatic event. Instead, it hides in the day-to-day processes […]