If you plan on doing energy-efficient home improvements, now’s the time! The federal government’s tax credit for energy-efficient home improvements will expire at the end of the month, on December 31, 2010. You can claim the credit if you install certain energy-efficient air conditioning systems, windows and doors, and wall and ceiling insulation, among other improvements. The credit will cover 30% of the total cost of the improvements, up to $1,500. However, you must complete your improvements and they must be ready to use by December 31.
Improvements on vacation homes do not qualify; in order to benefit from the credit, all improvements must be made on your primary residence. If you’re looking for an experienced contractor, you can find one on the National Association of the Remodeling Industry website. For more information on on this topic, go to the Energy Star website.
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Sheiresa Ngo is the multimedia content producer for consumer affairs at Black Enterprise.