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Tax Credit Available for Many Energy Efficient Home Improvements

Kansas City, MO, (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX) -- "Going green" is not only great for the environment, but it also may result in hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars in savings for taxpayers. H&R Block (NYSE: HRB) points out several energy-related tax credits available for 2008 and more that have been added for 2009. Available for the 2008 tax year is a credit for residential energy efficient property (REEP) that was purchased and used to provide energy to the taxpayer's home in 2008. The REEP credit also includes the cost of installation. The following items are eligible:

• Solar panels - 30 percent of cost, up to $2,000
• Geothermal heat pumps and solar water heaters - 30 percent of cost, up to $2,000
• Small wind energy property - 30 percent of cost, up to $4,000
• Fuel cells - $500 for each half-kilowatt of capacity

"Home improvements are seen by many as an investment in the future value of the home," said Gil Charney, tax analyst with The Tax Institute at H&R Block. "However, by including these energy efficient changes, taxpayers can see their investment pay off much sooner."

For taxpayers considering home improvement projects now, know that recent legislative changes have extended, increased and expanded home energy credits for 2009 and beyond.

The REEP credit, listed above, has been extended through 2016 and, aside from fuel cell property, no longer has a maximum amount that may be claimed.

The nonbusiness energy property credit is available for 2009 and 2010. The credit is for 30 percent of the cost of external windows and doors, insulation, roofing, HVAC, non-solar water heaters and biomass stoves. The maximum lifetime credit is $1,500, and all products must meet specific energy guidelines to qualify.

All nonbusiness energy property credits must be used for a taxpayer's primary residence, and items must be in service between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2010.

More information on energy efficient tax savings

In addition to home improvements, purchasing a new alternative fuel or plug-in electric car can also mean tax savings. The alternative fuel credit, which includes hybrid vehicles, is based on a formula determined by weight, fuel economy and technology. Taxpayers can claim up to $3,400 for the alternative fuel credit. The plug-in electric vehicle credit, determined by the capacity of the battery system, can be up to $7,500. Both credits are subject to a phase-out based on the amount of cars sold.

To see a complete listing of qualifying hybrid vehicles, visit www.digits.hrblock.com, and for more information on energy efficient tax savings, visit www.hrblock.com or call 1-800-HRBLOCK.

The Tax Institute, a division of H&R Block, is a national leader in providing unbiased research, analysis and interpretation of federal and state tax laws. Staffed by Enrolled Agents, CPAs, and Attorneys, The Tax Institute provides industry expertise for matters related to taxes and the professional tax preparation industry.

About H&R Block

H&R Block Inc. (NYSE: HRB) is the world's preeminent tax services provider, having served more than 400 million clients since 1955 and generating annual revenues of $4.1 billion in fiscal year 2008. H&R Block provides income tax return preparation and related services and products via a nationwide network of approximately 13,000 company-owned and franchised offices and through TaxCut(R) online and software solutions. The company also provides business services through RSM McGladrey. For more information visit our Online Press Center at www.hrblock.com.

SOURCE: H & R Block

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