Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

Internal Revenue Service

Closed Solar & Renewable

About This Program

Note: Congress ended this federal tax credit for installations after December 31, 2025. Projects placed in service by that date can still be claimed on your 2025 federal return (IRS Form 5695).

Federal tax credit covering 30% of the total cost of installing residential solar panels and battery storage. Credit can be claimed on federal income taxes and reduces the net cost of going solar.

30% federal tax credit on typical residential solar installation cost

Federal program, maintained from the official federal source.

Data last verified 2026-06-09. How we verify our data.

This is a national program. In Santa Maria, CA, you can stack it with local programs like these:

Key Details

  • 30% tax credit on solar installation costs
  • Includes solar panels and battery storage
  • No income requirement
  • Credit available for installations completed by December 31, 2025
  • Claimed on federal income tax return

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

(800) 829-1040

A grant-savvy contractor in Santa Maria, CA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Santa Maria early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Form to file: IRS Form 5695

This is a federal tax credit, not a grant you apply for. You claim 30 percent of the cost of a qualifying solar or clean energy system on your federal tax return using Form 5695.

Steps to apply

  1. Have your solar or clean energy system installed and pay for it.
  2. Keep the itemized invoice and proof of payment.
  3. Complete IRS Form 5695 and file it with your Form 1040 for the year the system was placed in service.
  4. If the credit is larger than your tax bill, carry the unused amount forward to next year.
Get the official formDownload the fillable PDF

Documents you will likely need

  • Itemized invoice from your installer showing the system cost.
  • Proof of payment.
  • Manufacturer certification statement for the equipment.
  • Your federal tax return (Form 1040) for the year of installation.
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Ended December 31, 2025 (federal law change)

Questions about this program?

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