To shed a little more light on this topic, there are significant
differences in the two programs which are found in the mechanism that
is used to get funds into the hands of individuals eligible to
receive it, and the period over which the programs are effective.
The Consumer Assistance to Reduce and Save (CARS) program is
implemented through vouchers valued between $3,500 and $4,500 and
lasts for short period (July 1, 2009 to November 1, 2009; Whereas the
First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit (FTHTC) is part of a broader program,
the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and is implemented
over a longer period of time (April 8, 2008 to December 31, 2009)
during which first-time homebuyers receive the funds - $7,500
(repayable) to $8,000 - through a refund on their 2007 return, 2008
return, amended 2008 return or the 2009 return. We may see better
results (and stats) from the tax credit between now and April 15, 2010
(tax time next year), so there is still time to make those first-time
purchases in order to take advantage of the tax credit. It's real
money!
Join the conversation and increase the spread of information about
this topic.