How get credit for over $12,000 spent for new windows and doors in 2014 if we did not receive energy efficiency-related tax credits for 2014, 2015, or 2016?

[rhc]

We did not receive energy credits for new windows and doors bought in 2014 for our 2014, 2015, or 2016 tax returns.  We recall that we were not allowed to claim this credit in earlier years.   Turbo Tax is only allowing a $150 credit for the new gas furnace and boiler we installed in 2017, but does not add any credit for the over $12,000 in windows and doors in 2014.

[DianeW · Accepted solution]

The energy credit has been allowed for several years.  You must amend your applicable tax returns based on when the money was paid and installation was completed for windows and doors for 2014 as example. 

The following explanation may be helpful to explain the energy credit and limits based on the type of energy efficient property installed. 

Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit (Part II): You may be able to take a credit equal to the sum of: 

1. 10% of the amount paid or incurred for qualified energy efficiency improvements installed during 2014, and 

2. Any residential energy property costs paid or incurred in 2014. 

However, this credit is limited as follows. 

• A total combined credit limit of $500 for all tax years after 2005. 
• A combined credit limit of $200 for windows for all tax years after 2005. 
• A credit limit for residential energy property costs for 2014 of:
•  $50 for any advanced main air circulating fan; 
• $150 for any qualified natural gas, propane, or oil furnace or hot water boiler; and 
• $300 for any item of energy efficient building property.

Note: If the total of any nonbusiness energy property credits you have taken in previous years (after 2005) is more than $500, you generally cannot take the credit in 2014.

You can use the instructions below to amend your tax return for an earlier year. Deadline for the 2014 tax return is April 15th, 2018.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3288565

[Opus 17]

You take the credit as of the date when the property is installed (placed in service).

So a credit for doors and windows installed in 2014 can only be claimed by filing an amended return for 2014.

Also, be aware that the credit for doors and windows is 10% of materials only; installation is not eligible.  The maximum credit is $300, and the maximum lifetime credit for all residential energy efficiency improvements is $500. Doors and windows must meet Energy Star version 6.0 requirements, not all do.  Check with your manufacturer.

The deadline to file an amended return for 2014 to get an additional refund is April 15, 2018 (about one month from now).