Shared from Rewiring America’s February 2026 newsletter.
Did your home get any electrification updates last year? Heat pumps, solar panels, panel upgrades, and more all fit the bill.
Rewiring America chatted with a real-life Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to get the scoop on how best to prepare for those home electrification tax credit returns. You did the hard work, now make sure you get those credit(s) come tax time!
Here’s a Q&A with Edmund Zhou, a partner in the client services group at the accounting and advisory firm BPM.
Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide specific tax guidance. For questions regarding your individual tax situation, it is suggested that you consulting with your tax advisor.
Q: I completed one or more home electrification projects in 2025. How do I check my eligibility for the federal tax credits?
A: A homeowner should review IRS form 5695 to confirm whether their 2025 electrification projects qualify.* They should verify the project type, efficiency requirements, and that the improvements were placed in service in 2025, and keep invoices and manufacturer certifications to support the claim.
*IRS Form 5695 covers almost all of your favorite efficiency, electrification, and renewable energy upgrades. If you’re on the hunt for the EV charger tax credit, though, look for IRS Form 8911!
Q: What documentation and/or forms do I need to provide with my tax return to receive the credits?
A: Taxpayers should gather all relevant documentation, including contracts, manufacturer certifications, invoices, and proof of payment, when preparing their tax return or providing information to their CPA. This documentation is required to complete IRS form 5695, which must be attached to the tax return to claim the credit.
Q: Can I claim a federal tax credit if I’ve already paid my estimated taxes through withholdings?
A: You may claim a federal tax credit regardless of whether you paid taxes through estimated payments or withholding (they are independent of each other).
Q: For individuals who typically file their own returns, is the incentive paperwork manageable? Are there any common mistakes people make when claiming energy tax credits?
A: Taxpayers who file their own returns should generally be able to manage the paperwork and filing required to claim the credit. Common mistakes include claiming non‑qualifying expenses, missing or incomplete documentation, misunderstanding annual and lifetime limits, incorrectly determining when the property is placed in service, and, most importantly, assuming the credit is refundable.
Q: Any other notes or words of wisdom to share on this topic?
A: I strongly recommend that taxpayers research reputable sources and fully understand the requirements associated with their electrification projects. The IRS may audit and deny the credit if the projects do not meet eligibility, record-keeping, or timing requirements. A denied credit results in additional tax due and may also trigger interest and penalties.
Bonus Q for Rewiring America: Are there any home electrification incentives still available?
A: Yes! While the majority of federal home electrification tax credits expired on December 31, 2025, there are a handful still available. Plus, state and local incentive programs are still running! Check this calculator to see if you qualify for a program in your area.
Household-facing incentives:
- EV charger tax credit – expires June 30, 2026. More info here.
- State and local programs — check this calculator to see what’s available.