As a sales representative at Tom Adams Windows and Carpets, I am often asked about the energy tax credit available to our customers, especially as we approach the end of the year. The federal tax credit, in regards to energy efficiency windows and doors are available for all those products that meet the energy star rated products that are purchased and installed (in use) in the calendar year 2013. This federal tax credit is in the amount 10% of the purchase price (excluding installation cost) with windows with a maximum credit of $200 and exterior entry doors with a maximum credit of $500. If windows and doors are both done, it is still a maximum credit of $500. It is available for the primary residence only, no second homes or rental properties are eligible. You do not have to complete all windows at the same time. All energy Star windows that are either new construction or replacement style meet qualifications. To check qualification you must have an NFRC sticker on the product with an Energy Star Approval Rating along with the original bill of sale that includes cost of product excluding installation costs. These are only for your records, only to be produced in the case of an audit or if you want to apply for the energy tax credit after you have filed your taxes. Aside from that, it is an honor system. It is a direct tax credit and not a deduction. If you have taken the Energy Star Credit prior to 2009, you may not be eligible for this year, even if your products qualify. I always tell our customer to check with their accountant on the rules and regulations of deductions. Deductions vary and you might have already deducted for these tax credits in previous years and you cannot do this twice. For further information, please visit www.energystar.gov. Tax Form 1040 available at www.irs.gov/pub/irs pdf/f1040.pdf
Written by Rich Magyar
Sales Specialist Windows/Doors Division
