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Level 5
March 29, 2026

Deductibility of a Modified Wheelchair Van

  • March 29, 2026
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views

I have a client who purchased a modified wheelchair van to transport his wife who is under memory care assistance at home. The taxpayer tried 3 difference memory care facilities in 2025 of which he tells me were traumatic for his wife and he decided to keep her at home with in-home care givers. He needed a vehicle to transport his wife to and from doctor's appointments and to just transport her in her wheelchair. In December 2025 he purchased a 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan for $36K which had only 16,000 miles and already modified for wheelchair capability. The IRS allows for a deduction for the wheelchair-accessible van for the price difference of the cost of a standard van vs the medically modified van. The issue is there are not many 2015 Dodge Caravan's around to determine what the cost difference. The client says he knows cars and no one would have paid more than $7K - $10K for such a 2015 standard van. I searched Kelly Blue Book and other sources and the trade in value for a like van with over 100K in miles ranges from $5-$24K. What other sources may I use to determine a cost of a standard Dodge Grand Caravan without the wheelchair modifications to determine the deductible amount? Has anyone had a similar situation and how did they determine the deductible amount? Feedback will be greatly appreciated. Thank You! 

1 reply

BobKamman
Level 15
March 29, 2026

I would look for sold items on eBay Motors.  But I would also listen to the client.  If he's happy with 10K, or even 8K, you should be too.  You work for him, not IRS.  

AnmarieAAuthor
Level 5
March 29, 2026

Bob thanks for your response. I agree I work for my client but I try to ensure I follow the IRS rules. I gathered car sales and purchases of his make/year/model without the wheelchair modifications and we agreed to a price. I used an average purchase price which is justifiable. 

Thanks! 

Counting down the days until this season comes to a close.................

BobKamman
Level 15
March 29, 2026

IRS has rules for people who hold themselves out as qualified appraisers, which you are not.  The idea of negotiating with your client about used-car prices?  Just makes me wonder why you doubt his honesty, or consider your opinion better than his.