How Does the Federal Income Tax Credit Work With Going Solar?

If you’re considering going solar, you may have heard about the federal income tax credit and how it can help you save money on your solar panel installation. But how does this tax credit actually work? In this article, we’ll explore the federal income tax credit and what you need to know to take advantage of it.

What is the Federal Income Tax Credit?

The federal income tax credit, also known as the solar investment tax credit (ITC), is a financial incentive offered by the federal government to encourage the adoption of solar energy. This tax credit allows homeowners and businesses to deduct a percentage of the cost of their solar panel installation from their federal taxes.

How Much is the Federal Income Tax Credit?

Currently, the federal income tax credit allows for a deduction of 26% of the total cost of your solar panel installation. This means that if your solar panel system costs $10,000, you can deduct $2,600 from your federal taxes. However, it’s important to note that the percentage deduction will decrease in the coming years. In 2023, the deduction will be reduced to 22%, and in 2024, it will be eliminated for residential installations but will remain at 10% for commercial installations.

Who is Eligible for the Federal Income Tax Credit?

To be eligible for the federal income tax credit, you must have a solar panel system installed on your primary residence or a property you own. You must also have enough tax liability to claim the credit. If you don’t have enough tax liability to claim the full credit in one year, you can carry over the remaining credit to future tax years.

How to Claim the Federal Income Tax Credit

To claim the federal income tax credit, you must fill out IRS Form 5695 and include it with your annual tax return. You’ll need to provide documentation of the total cost of your solar panel installation, including any eligible expenses such as installation fees and equipment costs.

Conclusion

The federal income tax credit can be a significant financial incentive for homeowners and businesses to adopt solar energy. By deducting a percentage of the cost of your solar panel installation from your federal taxes, you can save thousands of dollars and reduce your overall investment in solar energy. However, it’s important to act soon, as the percentage deduction will decrease in the coming years. With this information in mind, you can make an informed decision about whether solar energy is right for you and take advantage of the financial benefits it can offer.