Homebuyer’s Tax Credit 

Now’s Your Chance! 

As part of its plan to stimulate the US housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, 

Congress has passed new legislation that: 

• Extends the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time homebuyers until April 30, 2010. 

• Expands the credit to grant a $6,500 credit to current homeowners purchasing a new or existing home between November 6, 2009 and April 30, 2010. 

Who Qualifies for the Extended Credit? 

• First-time homebuyers who purchase homes between November 6, 2009 and April 30, 2010. 

• Current homeowners purchasing a home between November 6, 2009 and April 30, 2010, who have used the 

home being sold or vacated as a principal residence for five consecutive years within the last eight. 

To qualify as a “first-time homebuyer,” the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase. 

Which Properties are Eligible? 

The Extended Homebuyer Tax Credit may be applied to primary residences, including single-family homes, condos, townhomes and co-ops. 

How Much is Available? 

The maxi mum al l owabl e credi t f or f i rst-ti me homebuyers i s $8,000.The maxi mum credi t al l owed f or current homeowners is $6,500. 

How is a Buyer’s Credit Amount Determined? 

Each homebuyer’s tax credit is determined by two additional factors: 

1. The price of the home. 

2. The buyer’s income. 

Price 

Under the Extended Homebuyer Tax Credit, credit may only be awarded on homes purchased for $800,000 or less. 

Buyer Income 

Under the Extended Homebuyer Tax Credi t, effecti ve November 6, 2009, single buyers with incomes up to 

$125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000 may receive the tax credit. 

If the Buyer(s)’ Income Exceeds These Limits, Can He/She Still Get a Credit? 

Yes, some buyers may still be eligible for a credit. The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 for single buyers and between $225,000 and $245,000 for homebuyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Homebuyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income — over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples, are not eligible for the credit. 

Can a Buyer Still Qualify if He/She Closes After April 30, 2010? 

Under the Extended Homebuyer Tax Credit, as long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 

2010, the purchaser will have until June 30, 2010 to close. 

Will the Tax Credit Need to Be Repaid? 

No. The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, 

if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount credit will be recouped on the sale.

You’re considered a qualified first-time homebuyer if you haven’t owned a home within the past three years. Certain restrictions apply and income limits may affect eligibility. Tax credit subject to repayment if property is resold within three years. Consult with a tax professional for tax-related information.