Is there a window tax credit in 2010?

Yes, there is a federal tax credit in 2010, and it's much like the one that was in place in '09.  You still get $1,500 back on your new windows (not including installation). The money comes in the form of tax breaks when you file and is dependent upon your windows meeting the efficiency standards of a U factor of <0.30 and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHCG) of the same number. This is different than it was last year, when new installations only required the Energy Star label. 

There is confusion rooted in the fact that those U factor and SHGC numbers do not work equally for all climates. The window industry has hired a lobbyist to change this so that separate climate areas will have separate window requirements appropriate to each climate. In order to trim about $2 billion in spending off the bill, Congress chose to include the higher requirements. So, if you live in the mid-Atlantic climate, those U factor and SHGC numbers should be just about prime for you, but if you are outside that zone and want the windows that will do more than qualify, it may be worth waiting a while to see what develops.  

To Obtain Your Tax Credit:

• Purchase qualifying windows, then save your sales receipt and the NFRC/ENERGY STAR label with your tax documents.
• To qualify, windows must have a U factor of <0.30 and SHGC of <0.30.
• Have your windows or doors installed between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010.
• Claim the tax credit on your federal filing for the 2010 tax year. Tax credit does not include installation costs.