The government has extended and expanded the tax credit for first-time buyers. You now have until April 30, 2010 to sign a contract and qualify. And starting November 7, many existing home owners also qualify.
Am I eligible?
If you have not owned a home in the past three years, you may qualify. That’s right, even if you or your spouse owned a home more than three years ago, you are still considered first-time homebuyers and may qualify for the tax credit.
Existing homeowners thinking about buying a new home also be eligible for an up to $6,500 tax credit.
(For details, visit FederalHousingTaxCredit.com.)
Am I entitled to the full $8,000 home-buying tax credit?
It depends on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) and current eligibility.
How does the home-buying tax credit work?
It is a direct tax credit that reduces the amount of taxes you owe. It’s different from a tax deduction, which only reduces the amount of your income that is subject to tax.
If your eligible tax credit is more than what you owe in taxes, the balance will be refunded to you. (See an example scenario at FederalHousingTaxCredit.com.)
This is not a loan. You do not have to repay this tax credit.
How long does the program last?
The federal home-buying tax credit applies to homes contracted for sale by 04/30/10 and closed on by 06/30/10.
For additional details on the federal home-buying tax credit, visit FederalHousingTaxCredit.com.
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