How to Qualify

Eligibility

Are you the homeowner?

Most federal and utility energy-rebate programs are written for the homeowner of a primary residence. Renters are typically excluded from federal tax credits but may qualify for some utility programs. Landlords have separate commercial-rebate paths.

Is the property your primary residence?

Federal credits (25C, 25D) require the home to be your principal residence in the U.S. Second homes qualify for some 25D installations (solar, geothermal) but not for 25C envelope and HVAC credits. Rental properties are excluded from individual residential credits.

Income eligibility (DOE HEAR only)

The Inflation Reduction Act's HEAR (Home Electrification & Appliance Rebates) program is the only major federal energy program with an income test:

The 25C federal credit, the 25D federal credit, the DOE HOMES rebate program, and most utility rebates have no income test.

Equipment efficiency standards

Every program has its own efficiency floor. Common standards:

• ENERGY STAR® — the baseline for most utility rebates and many federal programs
• ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient — top 5% of certified products; required by some federal credit categories
• CEE Tier 2 or higher — required for IRA 25C credits on central AC, gas furnaces, boilers
• AHRI Directory listing — ducted HVAC and heat pumps must have an AHRI certificate matching the installed combination

Contractor licensing

Some programs (notably DOE HOMES, DOE HEAR, and certain state programs) require certified or approved contractors. Always verify your contractor's status against your state energy office's approved-contractor list before signing.

Property type