The Energy Policy Act of 2005 created federal tax credits for homeowners who make certain energy efficient improvements. In January 2013 President Obama extended these tax credits for energy efficient home improvements made in 2012 or 2013. Consumers purchasing qualifying 3M Window Film products between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2013 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 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 2012 or 2013 Income Tax Return. Download IRS form 5695 (PDF, 206 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 Films 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. Selecting 3M Window Films give you peace of mind. That’s because we have one of the most comprehensive warranties you can get; backed by a company you know and trust.
Another Great 3M Product You Can Trust
In the home, in the office, in the lab and on the work site, every day people all over the world turn to 3M products. Our quality is unchallenged and our commitment to innovation is unmatched. From great consumer brands like Scotch Tape and Post-it Notes, to leading edge technology and medical products, 3M has earned the world’s trust.
To Learn More or Purchase Window Film
Our 3M Authorized Dealers are skilled solutions providers and are available to answer questions or provide assistance. To purchase 3M Window Film or to learn more about window film, visit www.3m.com/windowfilm.
Manufacturer’s Certification Statement (PDF, 1.4 Mb)
IRS form 5695 (PDF, 206 Kb)
For more information on window films and window tints, please contact Stop The Sun, Inc. We are San Diego’s Premiere 3M Prestige Window Film Dealer!
Image courtesy of [Arvind Balaraman] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
People who own older homes often ask us the question; should we choose replacement windows or window film?
