Federal Tax Credit: All You Need to Know About the Solar Tax Credit

Besides saving natural resources and reducing carbon footprints in the environment, solar panels can also help you reduce the cost of your solar energy system from your federal taxes. It can help you save some money while filing your returns and enjoy the dollar-to-dollar reduction in the amount of income tax. As a homeowner, you would always want to do the best for your home in the most cost-effective way. Solar tax credits are the greatest way to advance your home without taking a toll on your payroll. 

In this article, we will walk you through some of the most vital information and facts that will help you learn and understand more about Illinois tax credit for solar panels. 

Without further ado, let us begin this article by understanding: 

What is the Federal Investment Tax Credit ( ITC) 

The Federal Investment Tax Credit was originally created by the Energy Policy Act, in 2005. It is the reduction allowed by the government in the federal income taxes to homeowners, who own solar systems. In the other words, it is the benefit provided to individuals that can greatly reduce or eliminate the taxes  owed to the federal government. As a matter of fact, you can enjoy the tax reduction in the year you install the solar panel in your home. Depending on the state-wise laws and regulations, the rule can differ.

How does the federal solar tax credit work? 

One of the major concerns that individuals come across is – how does the solar tax credit work? You can claim a federal solar tax credit by filing your tax return in the year you installed your solar panels. The credit received is generally calculated dollar-by-dollar as a reduction of your federal tax liability. For clear understanding you can consult your tax advisor or a professional, to help you file your tax return more efficiently and effectively. 

What is the current value of the solar tax credit? 

The current value of the Federal Solar Tax Credit, as of the year 2022 is 26%. The tax credit rate, when ITC was first introduced in the nation, was up to 30% of the cost of installing a residential solar panel system. The rate remained the same from the year 2006 to 2019. However, the downfall was regulated in the coming year and was fixed at 26% at the beginning of 2020. 

How many times can individuals claim the Solar Tax Credit? 

Generally, you can only claim the Federal Solar Tax Credit one time on your solar power installation cost. However, if you have any unused amount remaining on your tax credit that you were unable to claim in a single year, then you may be able to carry over the same for up to five years. 

It is always a wise decision to install environment-friendly equipment and systems in your home. Solar Panels allow you to have your own energy power source and save huge amounts of money on taxes and electricity bills.