Tax help for renovations

Improving energy efficiency at home can earn tax credits for 30 percent of the cost. The Obama administration has raised the amount it will pay for homeowners who buy energy efficient new windows and doors, insulation, roofs and air conditioning systems to $1,500, or 30 percent of the total cost. Earlier tax credits were capped at $500, or 10 percent of the cost. The work must be done this year or in 2010.