Updates on Tax Credits for Energy Efficient Upgrades
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February 17, 2009: Stimulus Package Extends, Enlarges Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives
Congress passed an economic stimulus package over the weekend that does much to promote energy efficiency. The American Recover and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 includes several provisions modifying and expanding the scope of the energy efficiency and renewable energy incentives. A few notable changes:
* Energy efficiency incentives for upgrades to existing homes have been extended, and are now available for 2009 and 2010.
* The financial cap for these incentives, which cover home envelope improvements as well as heating, cooling and water heating equipment, was increased to $1,500 (from $500).
* Lower caps, such as the $200 cap on new windows, have been abolished. The existing home incentives are now calculated at 30% of the cost of the installation, up to the $1,500 cap. The legislation is unclear on whether this includes both equipment and labor, however previous IRS rulings suggest that labor is NOT included.
* Standards for equipment eligibility have changed – see the individual topic pages under the Consumer tab for details (coming soon).
* On-site renewables (solar photovoltaic and hot water systems, small wind systems, and geothermal heat pumps) are now eligible for a tax incentive worth 30% of the total cost, without a cap.
* There are new incentives for plug-in electric vehicles, and plug-in conversion kits.
For more information visit these sites!
What is a tax credit? You don't receive an income credit when you buy the product, like an instant rebate. You claim the credit on your federal income tax form at the end of the year. The credit then increases the tax refund you receive or decreases the amount you have to pay. Tax Credit vs. Tax Deductions: In general, a tax credit is more valuable than a similar tax deduction. A tax credit reduces the tax you pay, dollar-for-dollar. Tax deductions - such as those for home mortages and charitable giving - lower your taxable income. If you are in the highest 35% tax bracket, the income tax you pay is reduced by 35% of the value of a tax deduction. But a tax credit reduces your federal income tax by 100% of the amount of the credit. |