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Colorado Heat Pump Tax Credit: Filing Guide

At Elephant Energy, we’re all about helping you make your home more energy-efficient, climate-friendly, and affordable. The Colorado State Heat Pump Tax Credit is a fantastic opportunity to save money while upgrading your home’s energy systems. Designed to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable living, the Colorado Heat Pump tax credit makes it more affordable to transition to cleaner, greener energy systems. This guide makes navigating the process and claiming your tax credit easy.

What is the Colorado Heat Pump Tax Credit?

The Colorado State Heat Pump Tax Credit is a new incentive, launched on January 1, 2023, that offers homeowners a 10% income tax reduction on the cost of eligible equipment, excluding installation charges.

What Expenses Are Covered?

  • Heat pumps
  • Heat pump water heaters
  • Electrical panel upgrades (if required for the installation)
  • Energy storage systems

Why Choose Heat Pumps?

Heat pumps are one of the best ways to make your home more energy-efficient while reducing environmental impact. Plus, the Colorado Heat Pump credit makes it more affordable than ever to make the switch!

  • This guide applies to heat pumps installed in Colorado in 2023. We’ll update this page with 2024 eligibility details as soon as they’re released—check back soon!

Who Qualifies for the Tax Credit?

If you own a residential building in Colorado or lease a property and have the lessor’s approval for installation, you’re eligible for the Colorado Heat Pump credit. Eligible systems must meet Colorado’s installation standards and be installed by a licensed contractor — if you’re an Elephant Energy customer, you’re already covered!

How to Claim the Colorado Heat Pump Tax Credit

Claiming your Colorado Heat Pump Tax Credit is easy when you know what to do. Below, we’ve outlined each step* to help you navigate the process with confidence — saving you time and ensuring you get the credit you deserve!

*Disclaimer: While we provide guidance, it’s crucial to seek advice from a tax professional regarding individual tax situations. Our presentation doesn’t assume liability for your specific tax circumstances.

 

Are you an Elephant Energy customer? Great news! Your Form DR 1322 is ready and signed—just download it to fast-track your tax credit filing process.

 

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

You will need:

  • Your completed Form DR 1322 (available for download).
  • Your invoice that shows the equipment cost (not installation charges), make, and model.
  • Equipment serial numbers.

Step 2: Fill Out Part 1 – Eligibility Certification

Building Owner Details: 

  • Enter your name, Social Security number, and address.
  • If you’re filing jointly, include your spouse’s information.

For businesses: Enter your company name and Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).

Contractor Information: 

  • Business Name: Elephant Energy, Inc.
  • FEIN: 61-1992874
  • Mailing Address: 1390 Yellow Pine Avenue
  • City: Boulder
  • State & Zip Code: CO 80304

 

  • Line 1:  Installation Address and Date: Add the address where the system was installed and the installation date.

  • Line 2: Purchase Type, Building Type, and Installation Standard 
    • For purchase type, select the relevant purchase made from one of the highlighted products that Elephant Energy supplies below (with star).
    • For building type, choose “Residential.”
    • For Installation Standard, check “Licensed Contractor with Specialized Technicians”

  • Line 3: Purchase Information: Provide the purchase date and serial numbers of the heat pump or water heater’s main components, along with their make and model details. This information is in your invoice from Elephant Energy.
  • Line 4: Certification of System Requirements and Installation Standards: All Elephant Energy installations meet the required system and installation standards, so this is pre-verified for our customers.

  • Line 5: Amount of Income Tax Credit:
    • Line 5a: input the equipment-only cost (do not include labor cost). Please refer to your invoice for this breakdown.
    • Line 5b: calculate your heat pump system or water heater credit by multiplying the amount from Line 5a by 10% (0.10). This resulting figure represents your eligible credit. If you’re not assigning the credit, transfer this amount to the appropriate credit schedule (DR 0104CR, DR 0106CR, or DR 0112CR).

Additional Tax Credit Details

Sales Tax Exemption (Part 2 – Contractor Certification)

Good news! If Elephant Energy installed your heat pump or heat pump water heater, we’ve already accounted for the sales tax exemption during the process. There’s nothing further you need to do for this section when filing your tax credit.

Assignment of Tax Credit (Part 3 – Election Statement)

Please note that Elephant Energy systems are not eligible for assignment of the tax credit back to the contractor. This means the tax credit stays with you, the homeowner, ensuring you get the full benefit.

Step 3: File Your Tax Return

  • Attach the completed Form DR 1322 to your Colorado income tax return.
  • Submit your return using your preferred filing method.

Reminder: Consult a tax professional if you have questions about your individual tax situation.

 

Maximizing Your Savings

Federal Tax Credits

Pair the Colorado State Credit with federal incentives to maximize your savings—check out our Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit Guide to learn how you can claim even more!

Local Utility Rebates

Many local utilities in Colorado offer rebates for heat pump installations. Check with your provider to see what’s available.

Not sure where to start?
Check out our Electrification Roadmap for a step-by-step plan to maximize rebates and incentives while upgrading your home.

Why Choose Elephant Energy for Your Heat Pump Upgrade?

At Elephant Energy, we’re more than just a service provider — we’re your partner in creating a sustainable, energy-efficient future. From the first consultation to installation and beyond, we’re here to simplify your electrification journey and help you make the most of your investment. With the Colorado heat pump rebates, you can save even more while upgrading to eligible heat pump technology that delivers measurable energy efficiency and tangible environmental benefits.

By joining the Elephant Energy herd, you’ll save money and take meaningful steps toward reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Let us handle the hard parts so you can focus on enjoying the benefits of a cleaner, more comfortable home.

Frequently Asked Questions: Colorado Heat Pump Tax Credits

Can I claim this credit for installations in 2024?

Currently, this guide and the Colorado Heat Pump credit apply to heat pumps installed in 2023. Updated instructions and eligibility details for 2024 installations will be provided soon. Be sure to check back for the latest information!

Does the credit include installation costs?

No, the Colorado Heat Pump Tax Credit applies only to the equipment cost and does not include labor or installation charges. However, upgrades like electrical panels or energy storage systems may qualify.

What if I lease my property?

Lessees qualify for the credit if their installation is approved by the property owner. Make sure to obtain written approval before proceeding.

Can I combine this credit with other rebates or incentives?

Yes! You can combine the Colorado State Heat Pump Tax Credit with federal tax credits and rebates offered by local utility providers. Colorado heat pump incentives vary by region, so checking with your city or county can uncover even more savings opportunities toward the project cost. This could significantly reduce the overall cost of your heat pump upgrade.

What if I need help with the filing process?

Our team is here to support you! If you have questions about your installation or the required documents to receive your heat pump rebates, contact Elephant Energy directly. For specific tax-related concerns, we recommend consulting with a tax professional.

Are there income restrictions for this credit?

No, the Colorado State Heat Pump Tax Credit does not have income restrictions. It’s available to all eligible homeowners and property owners.

Can I claim the Colorado Heat Pump credit if I purchased the equipment but haven’t installed it yet?

No, you can’t claim heat pump rebates in Colorado or the federal tax credit if the equipment hasn’t been installed. These rebate programs require proof of installed equipment, including documentation and signatures. To qualify, ensure registered contractors professionally install your heat pump and complete all paperwork before filing your claim.

2024 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re considering a heat pump, the 2024 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit can make it more affordable. This credit is part of the 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, expanded under the Inflation Reduction Act. Homeowners can claim 30% of the cost, up to $2,000 per year, on qualifying heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and related electrical upgrades.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how the federal heat pump tax credit works, who qualifies, and how to claim it.

What Is the Federal Tax Credit for Installing a Heat Pump?

The Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit is part of the 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, expanded under the Inflation Reduction Act. It helps make energy-efficient upgrades more affordable by covering 30% of the total cost, up to $2,000 per year, for qualifying heat pumps and heat pump water heaters.

How It Works

This is a non-refundable tax credit, which means it directly reduces the amount of federal income tax you owe but won’t result in a refund. If the credit amount is more than what you owe, you can apply the excess credit to future tax years. This lets you maximize the benefit even if your tax liability is lower than the credit amount.

What’s Covered Under the 2024 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit?

The 2024 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit helps offset the cost of energy-efficient upgrades by covering a portion of your expenses. You can claim:

  • 30% of the total cost, up to $2,000 per year for air-source heat pumps and heat pump water heaters
  • $600 for electrical panel upgrades installed with a heat pump
  • $1,200 per year for other qualifying energy-efficient improvements, such as insulation and air sealing
For example, if you spend $7,000 on a qualifying heat pump installation, you can claim 30% of that cost, or $2,000, the annual cap. If you owe $3,000 in federal taxes, your tax bill would be reduced to $1,000 after applying the credit.

Heat Pump Federal Tax Credit Requirements

To be eligible for the 2024 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Property Requirements

  • The heat pump must be installed in an existing home and your primary residence in the U.S.
  • New construction and rental properties do not qualify.
  • Eligible properties include:
    • Single-family homes
    • Condominiums
    • Mobile homes and manufactured homes
    • Houseboats
    • Cooperative apartments

2. Efficiency Requirements

The heat pump must meet the highest efficiency standards set by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE), including:

  • A minimum SEER2 rating of 16 or higher
  • Compliance with the CEE’s highest efficiency tier for air-source heat pumps or heat pump water heaters

3. Business Use of Home

If you use part of your home for business, you can still claim the credit, but it will be prorated based on non-business use:

  • Up to 20% business use: You can claim the full credit
  • More than 20% business use: The credit is proportional to your non-business use

4. Timing and Installation Requirements

  • The heat pump must be installed and operational by December 31, 2024
  • You must claim the credit in the same tax year the installation is completed
Ready to Upgrade to a Heat Pump?Find out how energy-efficient heating and cooling can lower your energy bills. Learn more about Elephant Energy’s Heat Pump Solutions and see which high-efficiency system is right for your home.

How to Get Federal Tax Credit for Heat Pumps: Claim and Filing

Here’s how to get the federal tax credit for heat pump installations:

Step-by-Step Filing Guide:

  1. Collect Your Documentation:
    • Save your invoices and receipts showing the total cost of the heat pump installation.
    • Get a manufacturer certification statement to prove your system meets the required efficiency standards.
  1. Fill Out IRS Form 5695:
    • Fill Out Personal Information: Enter your Name, Social Security Number, and Main Home’s Address at the top of the form.
    • PART I: Residential Clean Energy Credit: This section is for solar, wind energy, geothermal heat pumps, or battery storage. Skip this if you’re only claiming the heat pump credit.
  • PART II: Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit: This is where you’ll claim the heat pump tax credit, as well as credits for weatherization, electrical panel upgrades, and home energy audits.
    1. Continue filling out lines 17 through 32 in Part II.
      1. Section A: Qualified Energy Efficiency Improvements
        1. In Line 18, enter the total invoice amount for insulation and air sealing.
      2. Section B: Residential Energy Property Expenditures
        1. In Line 25ab, enter the total invoice amount for electrical panel upgrades.
        2. In Line 29abc, enter the total invoice amount for heat pumps and/or heat pump water heaters.
  1. Integration with Form 1040:
    • Add the relevant tax credit details from Form 5695 to your standard Form 1040 when filing your federal taxes. This ensures the credit is accurately applied to your tax bill.
  1. Submission Reminder:
    • Attach Form 5695 to your federal tax return (Form 1040) when filing. This is required to claim the credit.
  1. Keep Your Records:
    • Hold onto all documentation, including invoices and certification statements, for at least three years in case of an IRS audit.

Additional Energy Efficiency Tax Credits

In addition to the heat pump tax credit, the 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit covers other energy efficiency upgrades. Pairing these improvements with a heat pump installation helps you maximize your savings while enhancing your home’s overall energy efficiency.

Home Energy Audits

You can also get a tax credit of up to $150 for a home energy audit conducted on your primary residence. To qualify, the audit must:

  • Include a written report and inspection that identifies the most significant and cost-effective energy efficiency improvements, along with estimates of potential energy and cost savings.
  • Be conducted by a certified home energy auditor to ensure accuracy and credibility.

Pairing a home energy audit with a heat pump installation helps you identify additional energy-saving opportunities, maximizing your overall savings.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

The 2024 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit is part of the 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, which also covers other energy efficiency upgrades. You can claim 30% of the project cost, up to $1,200 per year, for qualifying improvements, including:

  • Attic Insulation
  • Basement or Crawlspace Insulation

Pairing these upgrades with a heat pump installation helps you maximize your savings while improving your home’s overall energy efficiency.

Need More Details on Filing?

For more detailed instructions, check out:

Ready to Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort and Efficiency?
Start your journey to lower energy bills and a more comfortable home. Get an Instant Quote for Heat Pump Installation from Elephant Energy and see how much you could save with a high-efficiency system.

Additional Resources: Rebates and Tax Credits Directory

Looking to maximize your savings? The following will take you to relevant Elephant Energy resources that explain how to make the most of available financial incentives, including rebates and tax credits:

Why Choose Elephant Energy?

Upgrading to a heat pump is a smart way to lower your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and take advantage of the 2024 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit. With the right system, you can get money back at tax time while making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.

Elephant Energy makes the process simple and stress-free. Our team handles every detail, from helping you choose the right heat pump to guiding you through every rebate and tax credit available. 

Ready to maximize your savings? Get an instant estimate to upgrade your home and invest in a more sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I combine this tax credit with other incentives?

Yes, you can combine the federal tax credit with state rebates or utility incentives. The federal credit is calculated based on your out-of-pocket costs after other rebates are applied, letting you maximize your savings.

Can I claim this credit if I received a state rebate?

Yes, but the federal tax credit will be calculated on your costs after the state rebate is applied. This means you’ll get credit for what you actually spent out of pocket.

Do rental properties qualify if I live there part-time?

No, rental properties do not qualify, even if you live there part-time. To get this credit, the heat pump must be installed in your primary residence.

What if I don’t owe enough in taxes to use the full credit this year?

This is a non-refundable credit, so it can only reduce your tax bill to zero, not below. However, you can use your unused credit for future tax years to make the most of the credit.


Disclaimer:

This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax advice. Individual tax situations can vary, so it’s recommended to consult a licensed tax professional for personalized guidance. Elephant Energy does not assume liability for your specific tax circumstances.

Elephant Energy’s Ultimate Guide to Mass Save® Rebates

At Elephant Energy, our goal is to help you create a comfortable and sustainable home. That’s why we’re thrilled to share our ultimate guide to Mass Save® rebates, designed to make your journey to energy efficiency easier and more affordable.

Continue reading “Elephant Energy’s Ultimate Guide to Mass Save® Rebates”

Home Upgrades For $0 Down With RENU

zero money down, $0 down, home upgrades

Introducing RENU

We are excited to introduce our new trusted partner, RENU! With RENU, we now offer low-cost financing for all of our projects. Starting at 6.9% and zero-money down, RENU makes it more affordable than ever to invest in electric home upgrades for your home!

What is RENU?

The Colorado Residential Energy Upgrade (“RENU”) Loan is a statewide residential loan program sponsored by the Colorado Clean Energy Fund. It makes home upgrades easy and affordable with low-cost, long-term financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements.

RENU helps homeowners save money on their energy bills by improving energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption. RENU-eligible home upgrades also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

What Home Upgrades Qualify?

Qualifying home upgrades include: heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, induction stoves, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, efficiency & weatherization upgrades, and ventilation & indoor air quality controls.

Who Qualifies?

To qualify for RENU, homeowners must own a single-family or multi-family home of up to four units in Colorado and meet certain underwriting requirements. The loan amount, terms, and interest rate depend on the borrower’s specific energy upgrades and creditworthiness.

How Can Homeowners Apply?

To apply for RENU, homeowners must complete a credit application that is initiated by Elephant Energy and ultimately provide relevant documentation to the selected RENU lender, such as proof of income, proof of ownership, and a detailed list of their selected home upgrades. A loan officer from the RENU credit union will review the application and determine whether the borrower is eligible for the loan.

Now What?

Ready to increase your home’s comfort and energy efficiency with modern electric home upgrades? Get Your Electrification Roadmap® and a Free Estimate today! 

Our friendly team at Elephant Energy will be with you every step of the way to streamline financing with RENU as well as rebate optimization through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentives (we have a guide on that, here!) We will help you achieve the best home upgrades with the lowest possible price tag.

To learn more about our team and mission, click here.
To learn more about RENU Financing, visit their website here.
To see Elevations Credit Union’s rate sheet, click here.
To see Westerra Credit Union’s rate sheet, click here.

Elephant’s Guide to Making the Most of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Incentives

 

What is the Inflation Reduction Act? Wondering how the Inflation Reduction Act will impact you financially? Want to gain a better understanding of home energy rebates and incentives will be available to you? Asking yourself, “What does the Inflation Reduction Act do for me,” or “how do I get money from the Inflation Reduction Act?”

Read on for our guide on the Inflation Reduction Act summary (IRA), including information on tax credits and direct-pay rebates!

Continue reading “Elephant’s Guide to Making the Most of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Incentives”