The Energy Policy Act of 2005 created federal tax credits for homeowners who make certain energy efficient improvements. On October 3, 2008, President Bush signed into law the “Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008”, which extended tax credits for energy efficient home improvements made in 2011. Consumers purchasing qualifying 3M Window Film products between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011 can receive a tax credit. Click here (PDF, 1.3 Mb) for a list of qualifying 3M Window Film products. A tax credit directly reduces your overall income tax, which is much better than a deduction, which reduces the amount of income subject to tax. Homeowners can receive a 10 percent credit on the costs of qualified 3M window film products, up to a maximum of $500. Must be an existing home and your principal residence. New construction and rentals do not qualify.
Complete IRS form 5695 and file your 2011 Income Tax Return. Download IRS form 5695 (PDF, 328 Kb) from the IRS website, along with a list of other available energy efficiency tax credits. You will need a copy of the dealer invoice for the window film product, separated by cost for film and installation. Installation costs are not eligible for the tax credit. You will also need a copy of the manufacturer’s certification statement, which determines which products qualify based upon where you reside. Make sure to keep a copy of both of these documents for your records.
More Than One Way to Save Money…
Energy efficiency can lower your federal tax bill and your monthly energy bill. Heat gained through windows makes up a significant portion of your summer utility bill. 3M Window Film reduces heat gain by up to 79 percent, which helps lower energy consumption.
Other Advantages of 3M Window Film
In addition to energy and dollar savings, window film offers numerous other advantages. As a homeowner, you can improve indoor comfort by reducing or eliminating hot spots. Another benefit is reduced fading of your home furnishings, helping to keep your home looking beautiful. By blocking up to 99% of the sun’s UV rays, our films help protect your family.
Manufacturer’s Certification Statement (PDF, 1.4 Mb)
IRS form 5695 (PDF, 330 Kb)
3M Window Films Tax Credit Brochure (PDF, 449 Kb)