Federal · U.S. Internal Revenue Service
25C — Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
Annual cap is $1,200 most categories, $2,000 for heat pumps / HPWH / biomass. Resets each tax year — strategic to split projects across calendar years.
Scope
What this program covers
Eligibility
Who qualifies
Homeowners filing federal income tax. Credit is non-refundable — only reduces tax owed, doesn't generate refund beyond your liability.
Details
How the program actually works
25C is the most-used federal residential energy credit. Claimed via IRS Form 5695 when filing your annual return. The credit is 30% of qualifying costs (including installation labor for heat pumps / HPWH) up to the annual cap. Equipment must meet ENERGY STAR Most Efficient or equivalent tier — your installer should provide the AHRI certificate or matching documentation. Cost basis is REDUCED by the credit amount (matters when selling the home and computing capital gains).
Stacking
Can you combine this with other programs?
Stacks with utility rebates (federal credit + utility cash-back simultaneously). Does NOT stack with HEEHRA on the same equipment — pick the more favorable one for your income tier.
Disclaimer
Information only. Confirm before purchasing.
This page is a reference summary. Specific dollar amounts, equipment-tier requirements, and funding availability change. Verify against irs 25c page before any purchasing decision. Not legal or tax advice.
Next step
See your combined estimate.
The calculator combines Federal 25C with all other programs you qualify for — federal + state + utility — into a single eligibility estimate.