The IRS announced recently that taxpayers who qualify for the first-time homebuyer tax credit on a home purchased from January 1, 2009, through November 30, 2009, may claim the credit on either their 2008 income tax return due April 15, 2009, or on their 2009 tax return due April 15, 2010.

 

This option makes it possible for qualifying taxpayers
to put money in their pockets in 2009, rather than
waiting until next year to benefit from this tax break.
Note that you can amend an already-filed 2008 return to
claim the credit. Since the credit is "refundable," you
may be eligible for a refund.

 

The first-time homebuyer tax credit provides a
refundable credit of 10% of the home's purchase price,
up to a maximum credit of $8,000 for couples filing
joint returns ($4,000 if you're single or married
filing separately). If you live in the home for at
least three years, the credit does not have to be
repaid. Income limits apply, with phase-out of the
credit starting at $75,000 for single taxpayers and
$150,000 for married couples filing jointly.

For first homes purchased from April 9, 2008, through
December 31, 2008, a credit of up to $7,500 is
available to qualifying taxpayers. This credit can only
be taken on a 2008 tax return, and it must be repaid in
15 equal installments beginning with the 2010 tax year. If you have bought or will be purchasing a home this year give us a call or an email us to see if you quality for the tax credit.

 

Sincerely,