Tuesday, December 09, 2008

How the Tax Credit Works

The First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit was passed this year as part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act (H.R. 3221) on july 30, 2008 and targets any individual that hasn't owned a home for at least three years. Taxpayers can take the credit on their 2008 tax return if the purchase was made after April 9, 2008

It's worth up to $7,500 and can be taken in a single tax year.Authorization for the tax credit ends July 1, 2009 so if you wait to buy until after the first of the year you can take the tax credit on your 2009 return.

The actual credit amount is set as a percentage of the home purchase amount. That perccentage amount 10 percent of the purchase price credited against your tax liability up to the $7,500.

Income levels are $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for households. Individuals who income exceeds the $75,000 limit but isn't more than $95,000 can still take the credit but on a reduced basis. The same thing applies to households earning up to $170,000.

Any house is eligible as long as it's a primary residence and is in the USA.

Contact your professional tax advisior as to your eligibility. The H Team can help you find a new home.

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