Who qualifies for the $8,000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit?
Only first-time homebuyers can take advantage of the tax credit. A first-time buyer is defined under the tax credit as an individual who has not owned a home in the last three years. For married joint filers, both must meet the first-time homebuyer test to take the credit on a joint return.
Individuals with an adjusted gross income up to $75,000 (or $150,000 if filing jointly) are eligible for the full tax credit. The credit is phased down for those earning more and is not available for those with an income of $95,000 (or $170,000 if filing jointly).
What kind of home can I buy with the $8,000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit?
Eligible properties include anything that will be used as a principle single-family residence – including condos and townhouses.
How does the $8,000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit work?
The temporary credit is only available for home purchases made from January 1, 2009 to before December 1, 2009 and is equal to 10 percent of the cost of the home, up to a maximum credit of $8,000.
The new tax credit does not have to be repaid if the buyer stays in the home at least three years. But if the home is sold before that, the entire amount of the credit to recaptured on the sale.
People who purchased homes under the 2008 $7,500 tax credit program will still be required to repay that credit to the government over a 15-year period.
How do I claim the $8,000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit?
Buyers claim the credit on their federal tax return to reduce their tax liability. If the credit is more than their total tax liability for that year, the buyer will get a refund check for the balance.