Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
About the Move-Up/Repeat Home Buyer Tax Credit

The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 has established a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified move-up/repeat home buyers (existing home owners) purchasing a principal residence after November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010 (or purchased by June 30, 2010 with a binding sales contract signed by April 30, 2010).

The following questions and answers provide basic information about the tax credit. If you have more specific questions, we strongly encourage you to consult a qualified tax advisor or legal professional about your unique situation.

1. Who is eligible to claim the $6,500 tax credit?
2. What is the definition of a move-up or repeat home buyer?
3. How is the amount of the tax credit determined?
4. Are there any income limits for claiming the tax credit?
5. What is “modified adjusted gross income”?
6. If my modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is above the limit, do I qualify for any tax credit?
7. Can you give me an example of how the partial tax credit is determined?
8. How is this home buyer tax credit different from the tax credit that Congress enacted in July of 2008? How is this different than the rules established in early 2009?
9. How do I claim the tax credit? Do I need to complete a form or application? Are there documentation requirements?
10. What types of homes will qualify for the tax credit?
11. I read that the tax credit is "refundable." What does that mean?
12. Instead of buying a new home from a home builder, I hired a contractor to construct a home on a lot that I already own. Do I still qualify for the tax credit?
13. Can I claim the tax credit if I finance the purchase of my home under a mortgage revenue bond (MRB) program?
14. I am not a U.S. citizen. Can I claim the tax credit?
15. Is a tax credit the same as a tax deduction?
16. Is there a way for a home buyer to access the money allocable to the credit sooner than waiting to file their 2009 or 2010 tax return?
17. HUD allows “monetization” of the tax credit. What does that mean?
18. If I’m qualified for the tax credit and buy a home in 2009 (or 2010), can I apply the tax credit against my 2008 (or 2009) tax return?
19. For a home purchase in 2009 or 2010, can I choose whether to treat the purchase as occurring in the prior or present year, depending on in which year my credit amount is the largest?

MA Home buyer links

• Rental Assistance and Public Housing

  A link to The Division of Housing Development which helps fund the production of affordable rental housing throughout the Commonwealth.

• Affordable Housing Opportunities

  Resources from MassHousing for affordable rental and home ownership.

• Assistance for the First Time Homebuyers

  Information to help you buy and keep the home of your dreams.

• Accessible Housing

  Valuable information that helps people with disabilities find housing in Massachusetts, primarily accessible and barrier-free housing.

• Elderly Housing

  Resources for affordable elderly housing and assisted living.

• Obtaining Housing Assistance

  A reference guide for Massachusetts residents seeking information on housing for low and moderate income families and individuals.

• Housing Market Data 

  Statistical information on the housing market.

• Housing Consumer Education Centers

  A pathway to a list of agencies that offer housing assistance, services and information to low and moderate income residents of Massachusetts.

• Affordable Housing for Sale

  Property listings for eligible buyers.