Federal Tax Incentives

A federal income tax credit equal to 20 percent of the project's qualified rehabilitation expenses available ONLY for income-producing properties. All properties must be listed in, or eligible for, the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or as part of a National Register Historic District.

Project work must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.The application is first reviewed by the Historic Preservation Division (HPD), then forwarded to the National Park Service for review and approval. This program is available nationwide.

The charitable contribution deduction is taken in the form of a conservation easement, and enables the owner of a “certified historic structure” to receive a one-time tax deduction. A conservation easement ensures the preservation of a building’s facade by restricting the right to alter its appearance.

Qualified professionals should be consulted on the matters of easement valuations and the tax consequences of their donation. To be eligible for the charitable contribution deduction, a property must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or as a contributing building within a historic district. If located in a National Register Historic District, a Part 1 must be submitted to HPD for review and certification by NPS

On December 22, 2017, Public Law No: 115-97 (Pub. L. 115-97) was signed and enacted, amending the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses. Pub. L. 115-97 (Sec. 13402) modifies the 20% Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit as well as provides certain transition rules. These and other changes to the Internal Revenue Code may affect a taxpayer's ability to use the 20% Historic Tax Credit. Pub. L. 115-97 also repeals the 10% Rehabilitation Tax Credit for non-historic buildings.

Applicants requesting historic preservation certifications by the National Park Service as well as others interested in the use of these tax credits are strongly advised to consult an accountant, tax attorney, or other professional tax adviser, legal counsel, or the Internal Revenue Service regarding the changes to the Internal Revenue Code related to Pub. L. 115-97. Technical Preservation Services National Park Service