Tax Credit
7/24/2009IF
youve been waiting for the right time to buy your first home, wait no longer.THIS
may be the best time in history for first-time homebuyers to take the plunge.FAQs: First-Time Homebuyers Tax Credit
What is the tax credit?
Its a credit for 10% of the cost of your new home up to a limit of $8,000.
Who qualifies?
Only first-time homebuyers. Youre considered a first-time homebuyer if you have not owned a home in the past three years.
Are there income restrictions?Yes. Individuals are eligible for the credit if their income is no more than $75,000. For married couples, the limit is $150,000.
What if I make more?You could still get a portion. Individuals who earn up to $95,000, and couples that earn up to $170,000 can still get a tax credit, based on a sliding scale.
Are there financing restrictions?
Most financing arrangements are acceptable.
Do I have to repay the credit?
No. Unlike the 2008 credit, there is no repayment requirement, unless you sell your home within three years of purchase.
How do I apply?
There is no pre-purchase authorization. You simply claim the credit on your 2008 or 2009 tax return, on the new IRS form 5405.
2008 or 2009? How does that work?If you buy a house before April 15, 2009, you can claim the tax credit on your 2008 taxes. If you buy after that, claim it on your 2009 taxes.
Is there a deadline?
Yes. You have to buy and closeon your home before December 1, 2009 to be eligible