You can only claim the solar tax credit if you purchase your solar panel system whether it be with cash or with a solar loan. If you sign a lease you cannot claim the credits. In Detail Talk with a CPA if you’re having trouble claiming your tax credit. There’s nothing to panic about, the credit will sit in your account indefinitely until you claim it. It’s important to know the credit isn’t a check the IRS writes you but a credit towards your tax liabilities.