12 ways to cut your taxes
The bright spot of the dreary 2009 economy: savings for everyone.
8. You made energy-efficient home improvements
If you went green in a big way -- installing a solar, wind, or geothermal energy system into your house, for example -- you can cash in on a 30% credit, with no upper limit. (Previously this maxed out at $2,000.) If this latter credit exceeds your total tax bill, you can apply the unused portion to next year's return, says Luscombe.
Potential savings: $1,500 if you spent $5,000 on windows and skylights
Potential savings: $10,500 if you spent $35,000 on solar heat and electric
NEXT: 9. You own property but don't itemize
Last updated March 26 2010: 7:15 PM ET
Savings assumed a couple filing jointly in the 28% bracket, unless otherwise noted.
