The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Energy Star program designates approved products with the Energy Star label, provides consumers with information regarding energy efficient products and establishes energy efficiency standards. As of 2011, three states offer personal tax credits for the purchase of qualifying Energy Star appliances. The appliances purchased must meet or exceed Energy Star standards.
Overview
Products that have the Energy Star logo must meet specific criteria, which includes the realization of significant energy savings nationally, verification of product performance via measurement and testing, and enhancement or maintenance of product performance. Other criteria includes the ability of customers to recover the cost of the appliance within a reasonable period of time, use of effective labeling to differentiate Energy Star products and broad based product specifications.
Washing Machines
Michigan's Energy Efficient Home Improvements tax credit provides a personal tax incentive of up to 10 percent of the cost of qualifying washing machines. The maximum tax incentive is $75 per individual, or $150 per couple; the program is effective until December 31, 2011. Oregon's Residential Energy Tax Credit provides a personal tax credit of 40 cents per kilowatt hour for the purchase of qualifying energy efficient washing machines that exceed federal Energy Star standards. The Virginia Income Tax Deduction for Energy-Efficient Products provides a tax incentive of 20 percent of the sales tax paid on qualifying energy efficient washing machines.
Dishwashers
Michigan, Oregon and Virginia provide a personal tax credit for residents who purchase qualifying Energy Star dishwashers. Individuals must purchase the appliance for personal use to qualify for a tax credit. Oregon provides a list of dishwashers, which qualify for the state tax credit program. The maximum Oregon tax credit is $180 for the purchase of Energy Star appliances; the program expires January 1, 2018.
Refrigerators
Resident's of Virginia, Michigan and Oregon can apply for a personal tax credit for the purchase of Energy Star refrigerators. The maximum Virginia tax credit is $500 for standard size refrigerators that meet or exceed Energy Star criteria; the program is effective until July 1, 2012.
Application
To apply for the Michigan Energy Efficient Home Improvement tax credit, individuals must have a gross annual income of less than $37,500 and use the credit for their main residence. Applicants must complete the Michigan Energy Efficient Qualified Home Improvement Credit form to apply for the credit. Residents who apply for Oregon's tax credit must have an income tax liability in the state, and must purchase the appliances for the main or secondary dwelling.
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