Federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit (25C)

IRS, Internal Revenue Service

Closed Energy Assistance

About This Program

Note: Congress ended this federal tax credit for installations after December 31, 2025. Projects placed in service by that date can still be claimed on your 2025 federal return (IRS Form 5695).

The federal 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit allows Virginia Beach homeowners to claim 30% of qualifying improvement costs up to annual limits. Particularly relevant for coastal Virginia, energy-efficient windows and doors ($1,200/year cap) and high-efficiency heat pump HVAC systems ($2,000/year cap) provide significant credits. Can be stacked with Dominion Energy rebates for maximum benefit.

Estimate for homeowner installing ENERGY STAR heat pump HVAC plus insulation upgrade

Verified against IRS, Internal Revenue Service's official page on 2026-06-17.

Data last verified 2026-04-03. How we verify our data.

This is a national program. In Virginia Beach, VA, you can stack it with local programs like these:

Key Details

  • 30% credit on qualifying home energy improvements
  • Up to $1,200/year for insulation, windows, doors, and energy audit
  • Up to $2,000/year for heat pumps and heat pump water heaters
  • Stack with Dominion Energy rebates for maximum combined savings
  • Claim on IRS Form 5695 with your annual federal return

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

A grant-savvy contractor in Virginia Beach, VA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Virginia Beach early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Your federal tax return for the year of the work (this benefit is claimed on your taxes, not through a separate application).
  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • A recent utility bill for the home (energy and weatherization programs use it to confirm service and usage).
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Ended December 31, 2025 (federal law change)

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