Year-End Tax Savings: Which Skid Steer Attachments Qualify for Section 179?

As the year winds down, many contractors, landscapers, farmers, and snow removal operators start looking for smart ways to reduce their tax bill. One of the most powerful tools available is Section 179 of the IRS tax code. If you use skid steer equipment in your business, Section 179 can offer significant savings when you purchase qualifying attachments before year-end.

But which skid steer attachments actually qualify, and how can you make the most of this deduction? Let’s break it down in plain terms.

What Is Section 179?

Section 179 allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment in the year it’s placed into service, instead of depreciating it over several years. That means if you buy an eligible skid steer attachment and put it to work before December 31, you may be able to write off most or all of that cost on this year’s taxes.

The equipment must be:

• Purchased (not leased)
• Used for business purposes more than 50% of the time
• Placed into service during the tax year

Attachments count as equipment, which makes them an excellent option for year-end tax planning.

Do Skid Steer Attachments Qualify for Section 179?

In most cases, yes. Skid steer attachments that are used in active business operations typically qualify under Section 179. The key factor is that the attachment must be considered tangible personal property used for work, not for personal or recreational use.

Here are some of the most common skid steer attachments that usually qualify.

Common Section 179-Eligible Skid Steer Attachments

1. Mulchers

Forestry mulchers and brush cutters are often high-dollar purchases, which makes them especially attractive for Section 179 deductions. These attachments are widely used in land clearing, right-of-way maintenance, and vegetation control, all of which clearly qualify as business use.

2. Grapples

Root grapples, rock grapples, and scrap grapples are essential tools for construction, landscaping, and agricultural operations. Because they’re used to move materials like debris, logs, and rocks, they typically qualify as depreciable equipment under Section 179.

3. Buckets

Standard buckets, heavy-duty buckets, rock buckets, and 4-in-1 buckets generally qualify as well. Even though buckets may seem basic, they are still considered separate pieces of equipment when purchased as attachments.

4. Snow Removal Attachments

Snow pushers, snow blades, snow blowers, and snow buckets are popular year-end purchases for a reason. If you operate a snow removal business or use these attachments commercially, they usually qualify for Section 179 and can provide a major tax advantage.

5. Augers

Augers used for fence posts, footings, or planting holes are another common qualifying attachment. Whether you’re in construction, agriculture, or landscaping, augers are clearly business-use tools.

6. Pallet Forks

Pallet forks are widely used in material handling and warehousing applications. Since they’re essential for moving pallets and heavy loads on job sites, they generally qualify for Section 179 deductions.

What Usually Does Not Qualify?

While most work-related attachments qualify, there are exceptions. Attachments used primarily for personal use, hobby work, or residential projects typically do not qualify. Also, used equipment may have limitations depending on how it was purchased and placed into service.

Because tax situations vary, it’s always best to consult your accountant or tax professional before making a final decision.

Why Attachments Are a Smart Year-End Move

If you’re considering expanding your capabilities anyway, buying attachments before year-end can make more sense than waiting. Attachments:

• Cost less than buying a new machine
• Instantly increase job versatility
• Can often be fully deducted under Section 179
• Put real equipment to work while lowering taxable income

Instead of paying more in taxes, you’re reinvesting that money into tools that help you earn more next year.

Timing Matters

To qualify for this year’s deduction, the attachment must be delivered and placed into service before December 31. Ordering early helps avoid shipping delays and ensures you don’t miss out on the deduction.

Final Thoughts

Section 179 can be a powerful way to save money while upgrading your skid steer setup. From mulchers and grapples to snow pushers and buckets, many attachments qualify and can make a meaningful difference on your tax return.

If you were already planning to upgrade your equipment, now may be the best time to do it.

Upgrade Before Year-End with Skid Pro

At Skid Pro, we build heavy-duty skid steer attachments designed to work hard and last. Whether you need mulchers, grapples, buckets, or snow removal attachments, Skid Pro has options that may qualify for Section 179 and help you maximize your year-end tax savings.

Explore Skid Pro attachments today and put your tax dollars back into your business.