Government Grants for Window Replacement in 2026
Your windows are silently draining your bank account. Drafty, outdated windows can be responsible for a significant portion of your home's heating and cooling loss - and most homeowners have no idea that government programs exist to help fix the problem. In 2026, the landscape for window replacement assistance has shifted, but real money is still available. Whether you're a low-income household or a standard homeowner, there are programs designed to ease the financial burden of replacing your windows. Here's the complete breakdown.
Why Your Windows Matter More Than Ever
Old, inefficient windows don't just let in a cold draft - they force your heating and cooling system to work overtime. This translates directly into higher utility bills month after month. For many families, this hidden cost is enormous. The good news? The government recognizes this problem. Multiple programs at the federal, state, and local level are designed to help homeowners make energy-efficient upgrades - including window replacement - either at no cost or with significant financial support.
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free Windows for Eligible Households
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) remains the most powerful federal grant available for window replacement in 2026. Administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, WAP funds a home energy audit and pays 100% of the cost for approved improvements - which can include full window replacement or repair.
- Who qualifies: Households at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (~$31,300 for a single person; ~$64,300 for a family of four in 2026).
- Priority groups: Elderly homeowners (60+), families with children, and individuals with disabilities.
- Auto-qualification: If you receive SSI, TANF, or LIHEAP benefits, you likely qualify automatically.
- What you pay: Nothing. Labor and materials are fully covered if windows are identified as a key energy issue.
To apply, contact your local WAP agency through the U.S. Department of Energy's official website or your state's energy office.
USDA Section 504: A Grant for Rural Senior Homeowners
If you're 62 or older and live in a rural area, the USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program could be a game-changer. This program offers up to $10,000 in grant funding to address health and safety hazards in your home - including rotting or broken windows that pose structural risks.
- Who qualifies: Homeowners aged 62+, with "very low" income (below 50% of area median income), living in eligible rural areas.
- For younger homeowners: If you're under 62 but still low-income, you may qualify for a 1% interest loan of up to $40,000 instead.
Check your address on the USDA's rural eligibility map to confirm you qualify based on location.
LIHEAP: Emergency Window Help Through Energy Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is best known for helping families pay utility bills - but many people don't realize that a portion of these funds can be directed toward emergency weatherization. This can include window kits, sealing, or even emergency window repairs.
- Eligibility: Typically capped at 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, or 60% of your State Median Income.
- How to access it: Apply through your state's LIHEAP office - availability and benefit levels vary by state.
What Happened to the Federal Tax Credit for Windows?
This is important news for 2026. The popular Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C) - which previously offered a 30% federal tax credit (up to $600) for energy-efficient window installation - expired on December 31, 2025. Windows installed in 2026 are no longer eligible for this credit.
However: If you had windows installed in 2025, you can still claim the credit when you file your 2025 tax return. Don't leave that money on the table.
Utility Company Rebates: The Best Option for Most Homeowners in 2026
With the federal tax credit now expired, utility rebates have become the go-to financial incentive for homeowners who don't qualify for low-income grant programs. Many electricity and gas providers offer cash rebates when you install ENERGY STAR-certified windows - because it reduces demand on the energy grid.
- Typical rebate amounts: $50-$250 per window, or $1-$3 per square foot of glass.
- No income limit in most cases - these are available to standard homeowners.
- Examples of active programs:
- Puget Sound Energy (WA): Up to $750-$1,500 total for replacing single-pane windows.
- Rocky Mountain Power (UT/ID/WY): $1-$3 per square foot for high-performance windows.
- Duke Energy, Xcel Energy, ConEd, and BGE: Seasonal offers and energy upgrade rebates.
Visit your utility provider's website and search "rebates" or "energy efficiency programs" to find what's active in your zip code.
State-Level Programs: HOMES & HEAR Rebates
Some states still have funding available through programs originally created under the Inflation Reduction Act - including the HOMES Rebate (for whole-home energy improvements) and the HEAR Program (for low-to-moderate income households). If your window replacement is part of a larger upgrade that reduces your home's energy use by 20% or more, you may qualify for thousands in additional rebates.
- Availability varies significantly by state in 2026.
- Check your State Energy Office website for current program status.
Finding the Right Program for Your Situation
With so many programs available - and eligibility rules that differ by income, location, and age - finding the right fit isn't always straightforward. The best approach is to search specifically for programs available in your area. Local conditions, income limits, and remaining grant funds all play a role in what you can access right now.
While the tips above give you a strong starting point, your specific zip code, household size, and income level will determine exactly which programs are currently open and accepting applicants near you. Searching by your location is the fastest way to find available funding before programs close or run out of money.
Don't Wait - Funding Is Limited
Government grant programs are funded annually and often run out mid-year. If you've been putting off window replacement because of the cost, now is the time to take action. Programs like WAP and USDA Section 504 have limited slots, and demand is high. Check your eligibility, gather your income documents, and apply as soon as possible to secure your spot - and your savings.
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