Can I get another solar federal tax credit if I move?

Do I need a certificate of occupancy for a mobile home to get 1st time homeowners credit?

• I purchased a new manufactured home for $66,000 in Nov. 09, paid for in full. I filed an IRS extension, and know I meet all requirements. The IRS agent I talked to last year told me because it's on rural unimproved land, that it's considered an owner built home, to include the cost of the well, septic, permits, etc. All of that has added up to a total cost of about $100,000, but I only want to include a few major receipts to show a cost of over $80,000 so I can get the full $8,000 credit. Because of the very remote mountainous location and snow, it's taken a long time to get everything else finished, and I live a long ways away, handling most by myself, and couldn't afford a general contractor, only for the house setup and where required by law. Friends over there have been helping me build the steps, well cover, etc. I know I'm supposed to move in by June 30. Most of my belongings are there, but I didn't quite pass the county inspection yet, including 2 things I'm now told required a permit. My friends are working all weekend to correct the little details, and I've applied for the permits. As I told the building dept., I've been trying to comply, but they said it will be another week or so before it can be inspected again and they can issue me a certificate of occupancy.That will be after the June 30 date. I spent most of last week on the phone trying to get everything else taken care of, as I was frantic that I might lose the tax credit, which I've been counting on and desperately need. I've tried to reach the IRS several ties in the past few months, but gave up after being on hold forever. Finally Friday I was able to talk to an agent who was courteous and friendly, but clueless about whether or not I need to include a certificate of occupancy to file so I can claim the credit. He also told me to include the cost of the land, but I've owned that for over 35 years, and am co-owner with my 2 grown children. We share the taxes on the 10 acres, but they have nothing to do with owning or purchasing the house, nor will they be living there. Do I have to include the land? Sounds like that could get complicated, but I will if I have to. So I know I need to file by mail with form 5405, include the retail sales contract from the home manufacturer (it will show that it's been payed for in full in Nov.09), and want to include a few extra receipts to get the full credit. But I still don't know if I need to include that certificate of occupancy. I can't find the answers anywhere and can't afford hundreds of dollars for a tax preparer. I don't owe any taxes, and my income is very low. I purchased this house with a little inheritance from my mother. Is it permissible to include a brief letter to the IRS? I'd be extremely grateful for any help!!! I

• Answer:

  Please please email me the answer as soon as you find out! I am trying to find the same answer for my dad who is also in the exact same predicament.. And like you, I cant find the answer anywhere nor find any local city or county office that can help w/ a CO. He has owned the land for many yrs. as well and recently built a house on it.. His CPA sent in all the correct info. to the IRS and he then received a letter stating he needed a CO to further approve him of the tax credit. Thank you! [email protected]