Energy Efficiency credit

[redriver210]

I spent about $20K on materials to install energy efficient windows and doors in 2019, but TurboTax is telling me I won't get any credit for this expense.  As far as I can tell I qualify.  Can anyone explain to me why I'm not getting the credit?  Thanks.

[DeanM15]

It is possible you topped out of this credit in previous years. 

This credit is pretty limited in how much you can take. Here are the limits from the instructions on Form 5695, Residential Energy Credits. 

• 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 2019 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

[redriver210]

So given that I've never applied for this credit before, do you have any idea why TurboTax would not give me any credit?

[ThomasM125]

If the improvements were for your main home then you would normally qualify. Are you sure your income tax is more that -0-, since you have to have income tax to qualify for an energy credit.

Your income tax would be the amount on line 16 of your form 1040. You can see your form 1040 while in TurboTax as follows:

1. Find the "Tax Tools" option on your left menu bar and click on it

2. Click on "Tools"

3. Click on "View Tax Summary"

4. On your left menu bar find the "Preview my 1040" option and click on it