My cousin bought a new home and closed on it in January. She didn't know about the new credit until after she filed her taxes and so I want to know if she can still get the money.

I work as a tax professional and we get this question a lot. Your cousin can claim the tax credit by amending his 2008 return (prepare a form 1040-X and attach form 5405) or he can claim it on his 2009 tax return.

If he used a tax preparer to prepare his 2008 return, the preparer (or his firm) could prepare the amended return for a relatively small amount. The firm I work for would charge only for form 5405.

If he used tax software or an online site, there should be provisions there for preparing the amendment.

If he use paper and pencil, read the instructions.