See how much you can save on new Energy Efficient Windows and find out if they qualify for the $1500 Tax Credit. Only takes a minute... >>
The words "rebate", "stimulus" and "tax credit" have become household words of late, especially with respect to window replacement. The U.S. government is currently offering window rebates for qualifying replacement windows up to $1,500!
So, how do you get your own window rebate?
In an effort to make energy-efficient windows more cost-effective, the federal government is offering window rebates equal to 30 percent (up to as much as $1,500) off the total cost of this type of replacement windows. This online guide can help you with the window rebate process.
The following frequently asked questions can help you acquire your widow rebate faster. It's also useful to consult a window expert or professional who is savvy to the tax rebates and can answer your specific questions.
Keeping this in mind, here are some of the FAQ's many window shoppers want answered about the U.S. government's rebate on energy efficient products - in this case replacement windows:
Q: Are window rebates a part of the U.S. government's stimulus incentive program?
A: On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009. This bill extends and modifies the tax credits and rebates for new windows, doors, and skylights that were originally established in the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
Q: What windows qualify for a rebate?
A: Approved energy efficient windows purchased between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010 are eligible for a tax credit or window rebate equal to 30 percent of the product cost. Installation generally is not included, so be sure to obtain an itemized invoice from your replacement widow professional, retailer or installer.
Q: Can I get the entire $1,500 tax credit or rebate on new windows alone?
A: This may be possible, but the maximum rebate covers not only windows but also energy efficient home improvements including roofing, insulation, HVAC and water heaters. It is likely that you will want to get the largest rebate you can, so determining which windows offer you the best savings and rebates will factor into your purchasing decision.
Q: How long do I have to take advantage of the window rebate?
A: Unless further extensions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 are made, you can get up to the maximum tax rebate from your energy efficient window purchases through the end of 2010.
Q: Are the rebates part of a state or federal window rebate program?
A: Yes and yes. In addition to the government's window rebates, many states have joined in the rebate bonanza and are also offering tax credits to their residents. Each state will vary, so researching your particular state could offer you additional savings on top of the federal window rebate.
Q: What form does the window rebate come in - a refund, a tax credit, a grant or something else?
A: Many terms are circulating these days. Whatever you call it, the window tax credit or rebate is money in your pocket. So, if you're buying new energy efficient windows, you like many others can capitalize on the current windows rebates.
Q: What windows don't qualify for a rebate?
A: Non energy efficient windows. The rebates apply only to your primary home or residence. Also, renters are not eligible.
In certain circumstances, the window rebate may also reduce the cost of new window labor and installation. Window Rebates 2009 vs. Now
Products that were purchase before June 1, 2009 have different qualifying criteria than today. For instance, windows rebates and/or doors, and skylights purchased before June 1, 2009 had to meet or exceed defining standards that were established by the 2001 Supplement of the 2000 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or the 2004 Supplement of the 2003 IECC for the climate zone in which the product is installed.
Sound confusing? It can be, but with the proper help and information you can join the innumerable window buyers who have gotten their window rebates. A key is to keep your receipts and other documentation. For replacement or new windows and skylights, homeowners may use what is called the ENERGY STAR (see below) label and/or they can submit the manufacturer certification statements to document their eligibility and qualify for a window rebate or tax credit. Products Purchased on or after June 1, 2009
What about new or replacement windows, doors, and skylights purchased on or after June 1, 2009? Standards have become even more stringent which is good for the environment but perhaps puzzling for you.
For example, to qualify for a rebate now, windows must have U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings of 0.30 or less. Additionally, these ratings must be certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). You should find an NFRC label on your new windows.
The NFRC is the only federally recognized organization for determining the energy performance of replacement windows, doors and skylights. The NFRC mark of approval on your windows therefore can translate into a window rebate for you. You may want to check the NFRC website for additional information concerning your new windows' level of performance and energy efficient qualities.
Again, to make sure you get a rebate on your new or replacement windows, you need to secure from either the window manufacturer, installer or retailer, proof or certification documenting your new windows' rebate or tax credit eligibility. If the manufacturer, retailer or installer cannot provide this document, it may be available on the manufacturer's website. Be sure you can get this before purchasing your windows.
Okay, so maybe you've heard the term "Energy Star Label" bandied about, but what or who is it, and how does it relate to window rebates? Though it's not a new addition to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Energy Star actually is a celebrity among windows with respect to superior energy efficiency as determined by the U.S. government.
The Energy Star insignia on a window's label means it has met the government's standards for high energy efficiency and can qualify for a tax rebate. Before you purchase your new replacement windows make sure they bear the Energy Start label. Also key is keeping and then producing that label when it's time to claim your rebate.
From Washington, D.C. to Puget Sound in the state of Washington, window rebates are being offered on energy efficient windows. That said, make sure you or your window replacement expert gets you all the rebates and tax credits available to you in your region.
Many of the larger manufacturers such as Milgard Windows and Andersen (often misspelled Anderson) Windows certify their windows. This can assist you in collecting your window rebate. Window manufacturers generally provide certifications on their websites, but if you don't find it there, contact them using their toll free phone number.
You are responsible for producing what is called the Manufacturers Certification Statement (regarding energy efficiency) because the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) does not keep copies of these on file. This certification is proof and helps you secure your window rebate.
Certainly a $1,500 window rebate is an obvious savings benefit, but what other incentives are there to purchasing new windows? Energy efficient windows can lower you utility bills. Rather than paying for lost energy with old leaky windows, new Energy Star rated windows, on average, cut energy loss by about 25%. This is according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Buying new windows can be easy and rewarding. With the help of a certified and licensed window specialist you can get the best prices, the maximum window rebates or tax credits and start enjoying your new windows sooner that you think!
Take a moment to answer a few simple questions on our online form and we will connect you quickly to your local window replacement options - and quite possibly save you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars! Start Now.
