California Guide · Updated April 2026

California Rebates & Credits: Waitlists, Programs & What to Do Now

California's rebate programs are oversubscribed with active waitlists. Rebate Scout helps you navigate the queue, claim federal credits now, and be ready when state funding reopens.

What rebates and credits are available in California right now?

California homeowners can access federal tax credits, state HOMES/HEAR rebate programs, and local property tax exemptions. Here is the current status of every major program as of April 2026:

ProgramValueStatusSource
HOMES Rebate ProgramUp to $8,000Waitlist.gov
HEAR Electrification RebateUp to $14,000Waitlist.gov
Federal Solar Credit + SGIP$5,000 - $17,000Available.gov
Dependent Care FSAUp to $2,250 in tax savingsAvailable.gov

What should California homeowners know about these programs?

California's HOMES and HEAR programs are currently waitlisted — get on the list ASAP

Federal credits (solar, heat pump, efficiency) are still available and shouldn't wait for state programs

California's high income tax rate (up to 13.3%) makes DCFSA and deductions extra valuable

SGIP battery storage rebates are still available through utilities

How much can California homeowners save with each program?

HOMES Rebate Program

Waitlist
Up to $8,000

California's HOMES program is oversubscribed. The waitlist is open — sign up to be first in line when new funding arrives. Expected Q3 2026. Administered by the California Energy Commission.

Official program page →

HEAR Electrification Rebate

Waitlist
Up to $14,000

High demand has exhausted the initial HEAR allocation in California. Waitlist is open for the next funding round.

Official program page →

Federal Solar Credit + SGIP

$5,000 - $17,000

Don't wait for state programs. The 30% federal solar credit is available now. California's SGIP adds up to $5,000 for battery storage.

Official program page →

Dependent Care FSA

Up to $2,250 in tax savings

With California's high marginal tax rates, DCFSA contributions save you on both federal AND state income tax, plus FICA. Effective savings rate can exceed 40%.

Official program page →

Free rebate alerts

We monitor HOMES and HEAR program status in all 50 states. When a program opens or a waitlist moves, you'll be the first to know.

No spam. Just alerts when programs change in your state.

How much could you save in California?

Take our free 2-minute quiz to get a personalized estimate based on your specific situation — income, home type, family, and upgrades.

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