The federal tax credit for energy-efficient windows and doors ended for products installed after December 31, 2025. What that means in 2026 and what still saves money.
If you have seen ads this year promising a federal tax credit on new windows or doors, read this first. The rules changed, and the credit most of those ads refer to is no longer available for work done in 2026.
The short answer
The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, often called 25C after its section of the tax code, ended for products installed after December 31, 2025. It had been scheduled to run through 2032, but the federal tax law passed in July 2025 moved the end date up. Windows, skylights and exterior doors installed in 2026 do not qualify.
If your windows or doors were installed in 2025 or earlier
Installations completed by the end of 2025 could be claimed on that year's federal return. The credit was 30 percent of the product cost, not including labor, with these limits:
- Windows and skylights: up to $600 per year in total. Windows had to meet ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria.
- Exterior doors: up to $250 per door and $500 per year in total. Doors had to meet ENERGY STAR requirements.
- Overall cap: $1,200 per year across windows, doors, insulation and similar improvements.
It was claimed on IRS Form 5695, using the manufacturer's certification for the product. If you had qualifying work done in 2025 and did not claim it, talk to a tax professional about whether amending your return is worthwhile. We can provide copies of your invoice and product details if we did the installation.
What this means if you are buying in 2026
Do not plan your budget around a federal credit, and be cautious of any quote that subtracts one from the price. A contractor cannot give you a tax credit; only the tax code can, and for 2026 installations it does not. Laws change, so if you read about a new program, check the IRS website or ask your tax preparer before relying on it.
What still lowers the cost
- Lower energy use. Replacing single-pane or failed double-pane windows with Low-E, argon-filled units cuts heat loss and drafts every month you own the house. This was always worth more than the credit.
- Financing. We offer 0% APR for 12 months on approved credit for projects booked by January 31, 2027. See financing and the current winter special.
- Phasing. Do the worst windows first and the rest later. We keep your measurements and product line on file so everything matches.
- Right product for each room. Put the premium line where it shows and a solid mid-range line elsewhere. Our comparison page explains the differences.
- Utility and assistance programs. Utility efficiency offers change often, so check your provider's current list. Income-qualified households can ask about the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program.
- Insurance, for storm damage. Windows and doors broken by hail or wind are often covered by a homeowners policy. See does insurance cover windows.
How to judge a window for efficiency without the credit
The credit used to point buyers toward efficient products. Without it, read the NFRC label. U-factor tells you how well the window holds heat in; for northern Illinois look for 0.30 or lower. Solar heat gain coefficient tells you how much sun heat gets through. Compare those two numbers across brands and you are judging windows on equal terms. More in Low-E glass explained and are triple-pane windows worth it.
This article is general information, not tax advice. Your tax preparer can tell you how the rules apply to you.
Common questions
Questions about a project? Call (331) 250-3726 or request a free consultation.