TAX CREDITS   - Looking for way to reduce your 2011 taxes.  There are a number of tax credits are available to individual taxpayers. 

Energy Credits  -  There is a credit up to $500 for adding energy efficient equipment and improvements to your home.  Also, there is a 30% credit available for installation of  solar energy pumps and small wind turbines. The property must meet official quality and performance standards and other requirements may apply.

Adoption Credit  -  A credit of up to $13,360 is available for the payment of qualified expenses such as attorney fees, court costs and adoption fees. There are certain restrictions and phase out of credits relating to this item.

Higher Education Credit  -  The American Opportunity Tax credit is available and can be as much as $2,500 annually for payment of tuition and related college expenses for the first four years of college.  Another credit, Lifetime Learning Credit is available for undergraduate or graduate tuition on job training courses.

Alternative Minimum Tax Credit  -  If you paid the AMT last year, you may be able to take a credit for some of the AMT you paid.  The credit is only available with respect to certain deferral preference items such as when stock options are exercised.

Chile and Dependent Care Credit  -  A credit of up to $3,000 is available if you pay for the care of a child under the age of 13 or another adult dependent while you work.

Other Credits  -  A variety of other special credits are available to businesses, including the low-income housing credit, the disabled access credit, and the credit for the employer provided child care.