Rising heating and cooling costs are driving consumer demands for affordable energy-saving home improvement solutions. To encourage these improvements, an Energy Tax Credit is being extended to consumers who make these improvements during the 2009 calendar year.

Under section 25C of the Internal Revenue Code (I.R.C.), homeowners receiving 10% credit can now receive a 30% credit on the costs of “qualified energy efficiency improvements,” including solar control window film on windows, doors, and skylights. This tax credit applies to improvements made to a primary residence from Jan. 1, 2009 through Dec. 31, 2009. A maximum lifetime credit increases from $500 to $1500 per taxpayer for eligible home improvements applies. Tax credits are available for many types of home improvements, and are listed on www.energystar.gov.

Money in Your Pocket

A tax credit directly reduces your income tax, unlike a deduction, which reduces the amount of income subject to tax. The credit then directly increases the tax refund you receive or decreases the amount you have to pay. Homeowners can receive a 30% credit on the costs of window film, up to $1500. Installation charges do not apply.

Making it Simple

Complete IRS form 5695 and file 2009 Income Tax Returns by April 15, 2010. Forms are downloadable at our home page link or at www.energystar.com, along with a list of other available energy efficiency tax credits. Maintain copies of the dealer invoice and the manufacturer's certification statement for your records.

Two Ways to Save Money

Energy efficiency can lower your federal tax bill and your monthly energy bill. Heat gained through windows makes up to 40% of your summer utility bill. Solar control window film reduces heat gain by 80%, which helps lower energy consumption. One study showed an average summer cooling cost savings of $99.