A tax credit of up to $8,000 is now available for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. Unlike the tax credit enacted in 2008, the new credit does not have to be repaid. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 expands the first-time homebuyer credit to include purchases made before Dec. 1, 2009.
In its efforts to stimulate the economy and revive the housing market, Congress has enacted legislation providing a tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers.
But time is of the essence for buyers who want to take advantage of this opportunity. Only homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009 are eligible. Use the links below to find out more about the tax credit.
The IRS announced Feb. 25 that for first-time homebuyers who purchase in 2009, the maximum credit is $8,000 and can be claimed on a buyer’s 2008 federal tax return. If the home purchase closes after April 15, a taxpayer can still claim the credit on a 2008 tax return by requesting an extension of time to file or filing an amended return. News release 2009-27 has more details on these options.
The credit is claimed using Form 5405.
For first-time homebuyers who bought in 2008, the maximum credit is $7,500 and must be paid back over a period of 15 years.
