2011 Window Film Tax Credit Info

The tax credit has been reduced from before. See below.

Tax Credit: 10% of cost up to $500 or a specific amount from $50 – $300

Expires: December 31, 2011

Details: Must be an existing home & your principal residence. New construction and rentals do not qualify.

Pretty much everything you need to know about your film’s eligibility conditions can be found by going to your film manufacturer’s website. Each type of film has eligibility depending on the “climate zone”, or area of the country the film was installed. Locate the manufacturer’s letter of compliance and read it to determine if your film qualifies for a credit in your climate zone. Once you’ve found that the film is eligible, print (2) copies of the letter so you have one to send in with your taxes and one for your records. If you’re having trouble finding the letter from your manufacturer, contact them by phone to ask them where you can find it or ask them to send you a copy.

Below is a short list of links to manufacturer certification letters. Please let us know if any of these links no longer work and we will remove/update them ASAP.

Make a copy of the dealer invoice/receipt (make sure it states the film type and has the material cost itemized)
Fill out the 2011 Form 5695. Window film is referred to as an “insulation material or system specifically and primarily designed to reduce the heat loss or gain of your home” so the film cost should be put on this line (2A).
The total from Form 5695 should be claimed on your Form 1040, line 52.
Send the copies of the certification letter and dealer reciept in with your Form 5695 when you file your taxes.

That’s it. If you have any other questions, let us know.

Useful Information | Administrator April 20, 2011