How to Apply — National Power Rebates
Apply Now
Home  /  How to Apply

How to Apply

Federal credits, state programs, utility rebates — what to file and in what order.

Step-by-step

The 4-step rebate application sequence

Federal credits, state programs, and utility rebates each have their own paperwork. The order matters — apply for utility rebates BEFORE you file your taxes for federal credits, because some utility programs require pre-approval before purchase.

1

Verify Eligibility

Confirm you're the homeowner of an existing primary residence. Some federal programs (DOE HEAR) are income-capped — check your household AMI before assuming you qualify.

2

Choose Qualified Equipment

Each program has its own efficiency thresholds. Most require ENERGY STAR certification; the IRA 25C credit requires CEE Tier 2 or higher for HVAC. Verify model numbers before purchase.

3

Get Pre-Approved (if required)

Some utilities require pre-approval before installation. DOE HOMES requires a pre-installation home energy assessment. Skip this and you may forfeit the rebate.

4

Submit Documentation

Utility rebates: typically a form + invoice within 30-90 days post-install. Federal credits: IRS Form 5695 with your tax return. State programs: usually online portal submission.

What documentation you'll need

  • Proof of homeownership — recent property tax bill, deed, or mortgage statement
  • Itemized contractor invoice — separating equipment cost from labor/installation
  • Equipment make and model numbers — must match the program's qualified-products list
  • AHRI certification number (HVAC and heat pumps) — confirms equipment matches the rated efficiency
  • Manufacturer's Certification Statement (for federal 25C credit) — confirms equipment meets IRS-defined efficiency standards
  • Pre-installation home energy assessment (DOE HOMES only) — modeled energy savings determine your rebate amount
  • For DOE HEAR: proof of household income (W-2, tax return, or other verification)

Federal tax credit timing

Federal credits (25C and 25D) are claimed on the tax return for the year the equipment was placed in service — meaning the year it was installed and operational, not the year you signed the contract or received the equipment. Keep all documentation; the IRS may audit your claim up to 3 years later.

Common mistakes that disqualify rebates

  • Buying equipment before checking the qualified-products list
  • Skipping pre-approval when the utility requires it
  • Missing the post-install submission window (typically 30-90 days)
  • Using an unlicensed or unapproved contractor (some programs require certified installers)
  • Trying to claim the same dollar of cost on multiple programs that disallow stacking
Pro tip: Email us your state, utility, and the upgrade you're considering BEFORE you sign the contract. We'll send you a one-page rebate stack showing exactly what you qualify for and the application order. Free.

Need help with your application?

Tell us your state, utility, and the upgrade — we'll send a one-page rebate map.

Send a Message