Get a Tax Credit: Replace the Windows

Detroit News

Now that winter is over, homeowners often turn their attention to other areas of home improvement instead of energy efficiency.

But remember, adding insulation or new windows, or getting an energy audit and making the recommended improvements now will keep your home cooler in the summer.

So it makes sense to make the improvements and reap the benefits of lower-energy bills throughout the year and get a rebate from your utility company or a state or federal tax credit.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which was signed into law by President Barack Obama, provides homeowners with tax credits for qualified home improvements that increase energy efficiency. The tax credits are good for up to 30 percent of the cost of the improvement, with a $1,500 maximum total amount that can be claimed by taxpayers for all the home improvements combined.

Some of the categories covered include windows and doors, roofing, insulation, heating and cooling, and water heaters. However, the improvements must meet the energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Full article at the Detroit News.  Click here.