45L Tax Credit

Are you building energy-efficient homes? You could be leaving money on the table. Let us help you claim the 45L Tax Credit and enhance your project’s financial return.

10-20%
of construction Cost of home
⭡$2,000
per unit credit (up to 2022)
⭡ $5,000
per unit credit (2023 and later)
45L Tax Credit

Why it Matters

If you're building or upgrading energy-efficient properties and not claiming federal green incentives, you're likely overpaying your tax bill and missing out on serious ROI boosts. Most residential developers leave six figures on the table simply because their CPA isn't filing the 45L Tax Credit or doesn't know their project qualifies.

What Is It?

Energy-efficient building tax incentives enable builders, contractors, developers, and investors to claim substantial federal tax benefits for constructing or upgrading properties with qualified energy-saving systems that meet the applicable ENERGY STAR Home Program or DOE Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program requirements.

 

Section 45L of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) is the federal tax incentive that promotes the construction of energy-efficient residential properties. § 45L, also known as the Energy Efficient Home Credit, offers a tax credit of $2,500 to $5,000 per qualifying energy-efficient residential unit built or substantially renovated to meet energy-efficiency standards.

 

Deadline: Under OBBBA and IRS rules, this credit will not be allowed for any new qualified homes acquired (sold or leased) after June 30, 2026. So if a builder is creating homes, the effective deadline is that the sale or lease must occur by June 30, 2026, to claim the §45L credit. Homes acquired after that date are not eligible.

Who Qualifies?

Qualified Energy Efficient Features:

Client Snapshot

28-unit ENERGY STAR townhome project

→ $140K tax credit

12 duplexes renovated

→ $60K claimed post-filing

40-unit ZERH-certified townhome project

→ $200K tax credit

What Are the Benefits?

Tax Incentive
Tax Credit
Credits
Retroactive
Flexible Application
ROI
Stackable
ESG

Why Choose Specialty Tax Advisors for the 45L Tax Credit?

The 45L Tax Credit is a powerful incentive for builders and developers of energy-efficient homes. Here’s why Specialty Tax Advisors is your best choice to help you claim this valuable credit:

Expert Knowledge in Energy-Efficient Tax Credits

Specialty Tax Advisors has years of experience in tax consulting, with a deep understanding of energy-efficient tax credits, such as the 45L. We are dedicated to helping builders and developers access every available benefit for their projects.

Tailored Solutions for Your Projects

Whether you're building single-family homes, multi-unit townhomes, or larger developments, we customize our approach to your specific project. We ensure that you receive the maximum tax benefit, regardless of the scale or complexity of your construction project.

Simplified Process with Compliance Assurance

We take care of all the details, ensuring your projects meet IRS guidelines and qualify for the credit. From certification to documentation, we handle everything to ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

Complete Support Every Step of the Way

We assist you throughout the entire process, from determining eligibility to filing your claim. Our goal is to make sure your homes meet the energy-efficiency standards required for the credit, so you can access the full benefit without hassle.

Proven Success with Builders and Developers

With years of experience helping builders claim the 45L Tax Credit, we've successfully secured significant tax savings for projects of all sizes. Our proven track record shows that we know how to get results and maximize your tax benefits.

Avoid Missed Opportunities for Tax Savings

Many developers leave money on the table because they are unaware of the 45L Tax Credit or because their CPA hasn't filed it. At Specialty Tax Advisors, we make sure you don't miss out on this valuable incentive, helping you boost your project's ROI.

FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I claim the 45L tax credit for energy-efficient homes?

To claim the 45L tax credit, builders must work with a qualified provider to complete the required analysis and certification for qualified new energy-efficient homes. The credit is then claimed on the builder’s federal tax return for the applicable tax year. Builders should consult with a tax professional to ensure proper filing and documentation.

Homes must meet recognized energy efficiency requirements and be ENERGY STAR certified or certified under the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home program. Accepted programs include ENERGY STAR single-family new homes, ENERGY STAR multifamily new construction, and other approved new homes program versions recognized under Internal Revenue Code Section 45L.

Yes, certain manufactured homes may qualify for the 45L energy-efficient home credit if they are certified as ENERGY STAR and meet applicable energy saving requirements under approved programs, including ENERGY STAR manufactured home standards. Eligibility depends on certification and project details.

The ability to utilize the 45L tax credit in conjunction with other tax incentives or federal incentives depends on the specific facts of the project and applicable tax rules. Builders should consult a tax professional to determine whether the credit can be used in conjunction with other incentives.

The 45L tax credit applies to qualified new energy-efficient homes that are sold or leased within the allowable time frame and meet certification requirements. Whether a specific home qualifies depends on timing, certification, and compliance with Section 45L rules, which should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Interested?
My CPA mentioned it, but never filed anything.

CPAs often aren't equipped to certify energy efficiency. We handle the studies and compliance.