KUSA - If you want to get the most out of tax incentives for 2011, your time is running out. Here are the best ways to get the most for your money.
The consumer website Angie's List points out the incentives stop at the end of December where some homeowners can claim up to $500 on certain home-improvement projects. However, Angie's List founder Angie Hicks says to get the full incentives you need to ownership of the project and really do your research.
"Consumers need to be in the driver's seat when they're shopping because not every product is going to qualify for the tax credit," Hicks said. "Do not rely solely on the company doing the installation and you should also check with your tax consultant."
The home-improvement projects include upgrades to heating and air-conditioning systems, roofs, insulation, windows and doors.
If you are not sure where to start making energy-efficiency improvements to your home, Hicks suggests you consider hiring an auditor to identify the energy problems in your home.
Homeowners can claim up to 10 percent, $500 maximum, on eligible projects in 2011. If you thought homeowners were offered a bigger incent in 2010, you are right. In 2010 the Federal Tax credits were three-times higher. On top of the federal tax incentives, every state offers credit as well. You can find out what each state offers by going to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, or DSIRE.
You can go to their website by visiting, http://www.dsireusa.org
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