Receive a tax credit for installing Solar Control window film in 2009
The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act reinstated Federal tax credits for consumers who make certain energy-efficient improvements to their homes. This bill extended tax credits for energy efficient home improvements, such as energy saving window film.
Under section 25C of the Internal Revenue Code (I.R.C.), homeowners can receive a 30 percent credit on the costs of "qualified energy efficiency improvements," including most films installed by Interior Guards that are solar control window film on windows, doors, and skylights. This tax credit applies only to improvements made to a primary residence from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010.
A tax credit is generally more valuable than an equivalent tax deduction because a tax credit reduces your tax dollar-for-dollar, while a deduction only removes a percentage of the tax that is owed. If you can itemize energy-related purchases on your federal income tax form, it will lower the total amount of tax you owe the government.
Homeowners can receive a 30 percent credit on the cost of the window film, up to $1500. Installation costs do not apply, only the cost of the film. This credit is in addition to any previous credit used.
Save On Your Energy Bills Now
Cooling costs related to the heat gained through windows can make up about 40 percent of a home's summer utility bill. Solar control window film reduces total solar energy by up to 80 percent, which helps lower your energy consumption. And the energy savings benefits go on year after year, long after you have received the tax credit.
And the benefits don't stop there. In addition to energy savings all year long, window film also can:
- Improve your comfort by eliminating hot spots and maintaining interior temperatures
- Help protect your family from UV exposure, which can help prevent certain forms of skin cancer
- Reduce glare
- Reduce fading of furnishings and interiors
Eligibility
Any homeowner who purchases and installs qualifying brands of solar control window film (see Panorama’s manufacturer’s certification for eligible films) between January 1 and December 31, 2010 is eligible to receive a tax credit.
How to Receive Credit
Complete IRS form 5695 and file 2009 Income Tax Returns by April 15, 2010. Maintain copies of the dealer invoice and the manufacturer’s certification statement for your records. If you are audited, you will need to provide these documents to the IRS.
Tax forms are downloadable from www.energystar.gov or the IRS website at www.irs.gov. For further information about energy tax credits, visit www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm.
To find out more information, please download the 2009 Tax Credit PDF.
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