Buying an electric car? You can get a $7,500 tax credit, but it won't be easy

For the first time in years, some Teslas will qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit for new electric vehicles. But only some vehicles — and only some buyers — are eligible. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Uncle Sam wants you to buy an electric vehicle. And he's willing to throw $7,500 your way to make it happen ... if you and the model you want both qualify.

The tax credits for purchasing electric vehicles (EVs) got a major overhaul on Jan. 1. EV tax credits have been around for years, but they were redesigned as part of President Biden's massive climate bill signed into law last year. And in the process, they got complicated. Really complicated.