Time is running out to take advantage of energy saving investments in your principle residence. The Non-business Energy Property Tax Credit was increased as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. I've written about these before (and here)but wanted to bring them to your attention once again as they are set to expire at year end.
First, to qualify, the improvements must be placed in service before January 1, 2011.
Here are some of the important facts to keep in mind:
- The law increased the credit rate to 30 percent of the cost of all qualifying improvements and raised the credit limit to $1,500 total for 2009 and 2010 combined
- The credit applies to improvements in insulation, energy-efficient windows, and energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems.
- For purposes of the credit, to qualify as "energy efficient", the product must generally meet certain standards. If you have questions, make sure you make the determination before you purchase the product to make sure you qualify.
- Manufacturers must certify that their products meet the standards and must provide a written statement to the taxpayer, either with the product or on their website.
- The improvements must be made to your principle residence located in the United States. A second home or rental property would not qualify for the particular credit.
- You must claim the credit on the tax return for the year that the improvements were made.
Oregon residents should also determine if their investment would qualify for the Oregon Residential Energy Tax Credit (RETC). Oregon residents might also qualify for special incentives from the Energy Trust of Oregon.
You should also check the Database for State Incentive for Renewables & Efficiency to what other local incentives might be available around the country.
Posts
