How Can the 2010 U.S. Government's Energy Savings Tax Plan Help You?
Congress Offers Tax Breaks for Upgrading a Home's Energy Efficiency Levels
The recently passed American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2010, aka the Stimulus Bill, offers homeowners tax incentives for improving your home's energy efficiency. Beginning January 1, 2010, the United States Government will be providing up to 30% (up to $1500) back on the cost of any window, door, or vinyl siding upgrades that will reduce energy consumption. The rebate will be in the form of a tax credit, reducing the cost of Window World of Fresno's already low prices by an additional 30%.
Qualifying for the Tax Credit Program is simple:
To get in on the energy cost savings, as well as the attractive tax incentives:
- Purchase energy efficient qualifying windows/doors from Window World of Fresno, and keep your sales receipt as well as the NFRC/ENERGYSTAR label.
- Have your windows/doors installed anytime between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010.
- Using your sales receipt and ENERGYSTAR proof of purchase labels, claim the tax credit on your tax filing for the 2010 tax year.
A "qualifying" window or door is one that carries both a U-Factor equal to or less than 0.30 and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) equal to or less than 0.30. You can find more information on energy ratings and qualifying products at the ENERGY STAR® website.
Replacement Windows: The Time is Now
Custom-built replacement windows from Window World of Fresno are a wise choice. They add value to the home and save money on energy costs. And now, with new federal incentives, replacement windows are more affordable than ever. So, call Window World of Fresno to schedule a free, no-obligation in-home window demonstration today. There's never been a better time to invest in energy savings!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tax Credit
- What qualifies as a "replacement window"?
- How do I know if my home needs new replacement windows?
- Why would I purchase Energy Efficient windows instead of standard quality windows?
- What causes the fog inside my windows?
- How can I find out the energy efficiency of a replacement window?
- How much money can I save with the Tax Credit Program?
- Isn't there some kind of tax incentive to install replacement windows?
- So, how do I get started?
What qualifies as a "replacement window"?
Is a newer, more modern upgrade to an existing window. Replacement windows are specifically crafted for the perfect fit of the older window. New replacement windows are installed with no damage to existing walls or exteriors, and will make the home look more sleek and modern.
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How do I know if my home needs new replacement windows?
There are many warning signs that hint that new replacement windows are necessary:
- Windows are difficult to open/close.
- Drafts, leaks, or gaps around the edges of window frames.
- What causes the fogginess inside my windows? Are they not insulating properly?
- Excessive outside noise not being filtered out when window is shut.
- Paint is missing, chipped, peeled, or cracked around the window frames.
- Wind causes windows to rattle, vibrate, or clatter.
- Home seems too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter months.
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Why would I purchase Energy Efficient windows instead of standard quality windows?
Energy Efficient windows offer various benefits over standard windows, including:
- Better home insulation, creating more comfortable summer and winter months.
- Lower energy bills, due to a reduction in energy used to heat/cool the home.
- Government Tax Credits of up to $1,500.
- Increased property value, because of a higher quality replacement window.
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What causes the fog inside my windows?
The fog inside windows is actually condensation, caused by humidity in the air. Leaks or cracks within the glass can cause excess fogging, and this is a common problem in older windows. New replacement windows from Window World of Fresno are better insulated than traditional windows, and will therefore reduce the condensation on the glass as much as possible. Especially in high-humidity areas, window condensation will likely not be completely removed, but our windows will minimize the issue.
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How can I find out the energy efficiency of a replacement window?
Every window sold at Window World of Fresno is labeled with a NFRC rating. The National Fenestration Rating Council is an independent organization that tests how well windows are able to transfer (or insulate against) heat and cold. The rating is known as the "U-Factor", and the lower the factor, the better insulating rating of the window.
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How much money can I save with the Tax Credit Program?
The Federal Government allows for a 30% tax credit up to a maximum of $1,500. For example, a $5,000 purchase would allow for the maximum $1,500 credit, while a $3,000 purchase would allow for a $900 tax credit. Credits are to be filed with the homeowner's 2010 taxes.
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Isn't there some kind of tax incentive to install replacement windows?
Yes. There has never been a better time to start saving on your heating and cooling bills. The U.S Congress recently enacted the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2010, also known as the Stimulus Package. For 2010, the tax credit for qualified energy efficiency improvements during the taxable year increases to 30% of the cost of items like replacement windows. So, if you purchase $5,000 worth of windows with upgraded glass, you will get a 30% tax credit of up to $1,500, making the real cost of your windows only $3,500. There are rules and restrictions, which you can read about here.
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How do I begin my Tax Credit Program?
The first step is to contact Window World of Fresno for a free in-home consultation and demonstration. One of our certified vinyl replacement window specialists will discuss your window options, and which styles and designs may be best for your California home's needs. Please fill out the contact submission form on the left side of this page to schedule your free demo.
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The above summary represents the best available information. It is a partial summary of the revisions to the federal tax code (U.S. Code Title 26, Section 25C) as updated by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Taxpayers are advised to consult with the IRS regarding any updates to the IRS interim guidance in Notice 2006-26 for further details on the tax credit. Other energy efficiency improvements may apply; taxpayers should check the following link and the IRS website for further details (http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=154657,00.html). Window World of CSRA bears no responsibility in the validation of obtaining the tax credit. Taxpayers should consult with a professional tax advisor or the IRS. Additional information is available at: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits.
