Finance·USA
Solar Tax Credit (ITC) Guide: How to Claim 30% Back
The Residential Clean Energy Credit returns 30% of your solar system cost as a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit. Here's exactly how to claim it.
Who qualifies
US homeowners who own their solar system (cash or loan — not lease or PPA). The system must be installed at your primary or secondary residence and placed in service during the tax year you claim.
What costs count
Panels, inverter, racking, wiring, battery storage (3+ kWh), permits, labor and sales tax. Roof repairs needed for installation generally do not qualify.
How to claim
File IRS Form 5695 with your federal return. The credit is non-refundable but unused amounts roll forward to future tax years until 2034.
Frequently asked
- Is the 30% solar tax credit still available in 2026?
- Yes — the Inflation Reduction Act extended the 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
- Can I claim the ITC if I don't owe federal tax?
- The credit is non-refundable, but you can roll the unused portion forward until 2034.
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Free, no-obligation. Takes under 2 minutes.