$1500 Tax Credit for Energy Effcient Windows and Doors

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The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act increases the energy tax credit for homeowners who make energy efficient improvements to their existing homes. This credit was not available in 2008 and the IRS intends to issue guidance that will allow manufacturers to certify that their products comport with the new standards. Also, the IRS has warned manufacturers not to continue providing certifications for property that fails to meet the new standards. Please note: Vacation and Second homes are not eligible for the tax credit as it relates to windows and doors. However, geothermal heat pumps, solar panels, solar water heaters, and small wind energy systems installed on vacation and second homes are eligible for a tax credit at 30% ofthe cost through 2016.

As it relates to an existing principal- residence, here are the specifics.

• The amount of the credit is 30% of the product cost, up to $1500, for all qualifying products installed in the homeowner's existing principal residence in 2009 and 2010.
• The federal government requires that the homeowner keep an invoice, provided solely by their contractor, that clearly identifies what qualifying products were purchased and the cost for each product not including labor.
• Must have a less than or equal to .30 AND a solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) less than or equal to .30.

Please note: The IRS recently shifted its policy on what windows can qualify for the new federal tax credits established by the ARRA. All Energy Star qualifying windows could be eligible for up to $1500 in federal tax credits if purchased before June 1st. After June 1st, only windows with U and SHGC values of .30 or below will qualify. As always, you should consult your tax professional for a definitive assessment of this program.

In virtually all cases, windows must contain Low-E as part of the glazing package in order to be Energy Star qualified. We are excited to offer our Federal Incentive Package, which qualifies for the tax credit Whether the threshold to qualify is Energy Star or the more strict ARRA (U and SHGC .30 or below).

Storm Products must meet the following criteria in order to qualify:
Storm Window. A storm window that, in combination with the exterior window over which it is installed-

• Has a U factor and SHGC of 0.30 or below and;
• Meets the prescriptive criteria for such component established by the IECC
(Please check with your window manufacturer to see What exterior Windows qualify)

Storm Door. A storm door that, in combination with the exterior door over which it is installed.

• Has a U factor and SHGC of 0.30 or below; and
• Meets the prescriptive criteria for such component established by the IECC (Please check with your door manufacturer to see what exterior doors qualify)