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Ministers Clarify 2026 Motability Tax Changes as Scheme Sets Up 80-Person Misuse Unit

Existing leases remain exempt alongside vehicles substantially adapted for wheelchair users, with Motability estimating about £400 higher average upfront costs.

Overview

  • From 1 July 2026, VAT at 20% will apply to top‑up or advance payments for higher‑value vehicles and Insurance Premium Tax at 12% will apply to most Motability leases.
  • Government responses to MPs confirmed exemptions for all existing leases and for vehicles designed for, or substantially and permanently adapted for, wheelchair or stretcher users.
  • Motability projects an average £400 increase in the Advance Payment over a three‑year package and plans customer engagement on package changes in spring 2026.
  • Motability has created a new Special Investigations Unit of about 80 staff and will strengthen data‑sharing with government and police to tackle vehicle misuse.
  • The scheme’s vehicle range is being narrowed by removing premium brands and coupes/convertibles, and the Motability Foundation will continue means‑tested grants to support essential costs and complex adaptations.