How the New First-Time Buyer Tax Credit Works
Under the new housing bill, home buyers who have not owned a home in the last three years will be eligible for a tax credit equal to 10 percent of the property up to a maximum of $8000.
Here’s how it works:
- The credit is $8000 for first time home buyers.
- The credit applies only to homes purchased on or after April 9, 2008, and before December 30, 2009.
- High-income home buyers don’t qualify: Eligibility begins phasing out for single filers with adjusted income of more than $75,000 and $150,000 for joint filers. It completely phases out at $95,000 for singles and $170,000 for married couples filing jointly.
Source: The Washington Post, Michelle Singletary (07/03/08)