Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (20%)

National Park Service / IRS (via DC SHPO)

Available Home Repair

About This Program

Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (20%) is available to homeowners in Washington, DC.

The 20% Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit is available to owners of income-producing certified historic structures for qualified rehabilitation expenditures. Work must meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and be reviewed by DC's SHPO and the National Park Service. While primarily used by investors and rental property owners, homeowners with a home office or mixed-use arrangement may qualify for a partial credit.

On $50,000 in qualified rehab expenditures, the 20% credit yields $10,000 in tax savings.

Official program page checked live on 2026-06-22.

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

In Washington, DC, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • 20% federal tax credit on qualified rehabilitation costs
  • Property must be a certified historic structure
  • Work must meet Secretary of Interior's Standards
  • DC SHPO review required, submit Part 1 before starting
  • Best for income-producing or mixed-use properties

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

(202) 442-7600

A grant-savvy contractor in Washington, DC 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 Washington early keeps your application moving.

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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).
  • 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: Rolling, submit Part 1/2/3 to DC SHPO before, during, and after work

Questions about this program?

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Frequently asked questions

How much can Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (20%) provide in Washington, DC?

20% federal income tax credit on qualified rehabilitation expenditures.

Who qualifies for Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (20%) in Washington?

Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (20%) is open to homeowners in Washington, DC. It has no income limit.

How do I apply for Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (20%) in Washington, DC?

Apply directly with National Park Service / IRS (via DC SHPO) using the official program link on this page or call (202) 442-7600. There is no middleman and no fee.

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