Rebate stacking order (2026)

Check each item in order before you sign a quote. WattRebate does not submit applications—use official portals linked from your state guide.

1. Open your state guide and confirm HEAR/HOMES launch phase on the official energy office portal—not from a calculator total.
2. Identify your electric utility (utility guides or ZIP pre-check) and read whether rebates require pre-approval or a specific rate plan.
3. Define project scope: appliance-only vs whole-home (HOMES). HEAR and HOMES follow different rules—do not assume both pay on the same measures without written confirmation.
4. If claiming HEAR income tiers, confirm how the state verifies area median income and what documents you must provide—never share bank statements with a contractor for this step.
5. Get any required pre-approval, reservation, or waitlist slot in writing before work starts or deposits are paid.
6. Match quote equipment to ENERGY STAR or program product IDs on the official approved list.
7. Ask the program administrator which order rebates stack in (HEAR point-of-sale vs utility rebate vs HOMES performance payment). Conflicts are common when the same measure is claimed twice.
8. Separate estimated rebate lines from guaranteed contract totals; keep copies of portal confirmations with the quote.
9. If the project includes EV charging, confirm 30C timing and census-tract rules separately from HEAR.
10. Schedule install only after the above are documented. Starting early is a frequent reason applications are denied after work is complete.

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