How to Maximise Tax Benefits on a Commercial Car Loan: Fixed Rate Finance for Business Vehicles and Equipment

A commercial car loan isn’t just about getting your business on the road, it’s about making sure every kilometre works harder for your bottom line.

Understanding Business Car Loans and Loan Eligibility

A business car loan is a finance solution designed for vehicles used predominantly for work. Whether you’re a sole trader needing one car or a company financing a fleet, the right loan structure can reduce upfront costs, provide tax advantages, and preserve cash flow.

To be eligible, your vehicle must be used at least 50% for business purposes. Most lenders will also want an active ABN, GST registration, and basic financials. You can apply for a business vehicle loan either under your business name or with a guarantor depending on your structure.

Compare loan types and eligibility criteria

How Business Vehicle Finance Works

A business car loan (commonly structured as a chattel mortgage) allows your business to take ownership of the car while making regular loan repayments. Depending on your setup, you may also consider equipment finance for vans, utes, and specialty vehicles. These finance options can be structured with fixed rate repayments to keep budgeting simple.

Explore business car finance options with Anyfin

Loan Repayments: What’s Deductible?

One of the key tax benefits of commercial car loans is that the interest component of your loan repayments is tax-deductible. That means the interest you pay can reduce your taxable income—provided the vehicle is used for business.

It’s essential to separate interest from the principal when calculating deductions. You can do this through loan statements or an amortisation schedule from your lender.

Claiming Depreciation and Instant Asset Write-Offs

Depreciation is a major benefit of financing a business vehicle. Under current ATO rules, eligible businesses can either:

  • Use simplified depreciation (for small businesses)
  • Claim temporary full expensing (while available)
  • Write off the full cost instantly if the car falls below the ATO’s luxury car limit

Make sure your car is used primarily for work and that you maintain a logbook if audited.

Read the ATO’s motor vehicle deductions guide

GST Credits on Business Vehicle Purchases

When you purchase a car through your business using a commercial car loan, you may be eligible to claim the GST paid on the purchase price upfront on your BAS.

However, if the car is above the depreciation limit or has some private use, the claim may be adjusted. Keep detailed records and consult your accountant.

ATO GST and Motor Vehicle Purchase Rules

Fixed Rate vs Variable Rate: What Works Best?

For many business owners, a fixed rate loan is the safer choice. It locks in your interest rate, meaning your repayment amount stays the same each month. This makes it easier to forecast costs and maintain stable cash flow—especially useful for equipment finance or fleet leasing.

Rate TypeProsCons
Fixed RatePredictable loan repayments, stable budgetLess flexible, may incur break fees
Variable RateMay benefit from rate dropsPotential rate increase, if rates rise

Avoid These Mistakes When Applying for a Business Car Loan

Getting a business car loan is simple, but missing key details can cost you:

  • Over claiming deductions: Only the business-use percentage is deductible.
  • Ignoring fringe benefits tax (FBT): If the car is used privately, FBT may apply.
  • Using a personal loan instead: You’ll miss out on business finance benefits.
  • No documentation: No logbook, no claim.

See how a chattel mortgage could be structured for your business

Business Lending FAQs and Fast Loan Options

How quickly can I get vehicle finance?

Many lenders can approve within 1 business day, especially for low-doc loans or when financing standard vehicles.

What’s the benefit of applying online?

It speeds up your application and gives access to rate discounts not always available in-branch.

Can I finance other equipment?

Yes, you can bundle other business equipment into a single loan package with fixed rate repayments.

Drive Your Business Forward with the Right Finance

Whether you need one ute or an entire fleet, the right business vehicle loan can help drive your business forward with competitive rates, smart tax benefits, and predictable cash flow.

At Anyfin, we help Australian businesses secure the right vehicle finance with fast approvals and clear repayment options. Let’s get you on the road with confidence.

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