Historic Tax Credits

Many homes, commercial properties, and other properties owned by non-profit organizations are eligible for historic tax credits in connection with repair or renovation projects. Properties must be over 50 years old and (1) designated as historic landmarks on state or federal historic registers; or (2) designated as contributing structures in state or federal historic districts; or (3) generally eligible for listing in districts or as landmarks. This program encourages owners of historic properties to maintain them as such, which broadly benefits communities with historic character.

The historic tax credit program is administered by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) which, in Wisconsin, is part of the Wisconsin Historical Society. To see the Wisconsin SHPO detailed tutorial on the historic tax credit program and how to apply as a homeowner, click here.

Jen Davel, Midwest Regional Director of the Heritage Consulting Group and previously part of the Wisconsin SHPO, appeared at Preservation Racine's June 1, 2026, membership meeting to talk about “The Power of Historic Tax Credits for Commercial/Main Street Buildings, Religious Properties, and Historic Homes”. She kindly has allowed us to post her presentation deck here, which includes information about how tax credits work in Wisconsin.