Medical Deductions

[jskouberdis]

Hello Community,

I was asked a question by a client and I did some research but could not come up with an answer.  Can you deduct the cost of applesauce or pudding that is used by elderly people to make it easier for them to swallow their medications.  This food is not prescribed by a physician to treat a condition but is taken by this elderly person to help them swallow their medications.  They have enough medical expenses to exceed the 7.5% threshold.  The total cost in a year would not exceed $500 for both the husband and wife.  Maybe this could be considered a medical supply possibly.  What does the community think about this.

Thanks,

John Skouberdis

[IRonMaN]

I think you are looking at a nope for that idea.

[jskouberdis]

I thought so also but was looking if somebody new some type of exception to the rule.  Possibly if there was some type of special food that said on the label "Pill Swallowing Easier" that made it look like it was exclusively for that purpose it might work.  Thanks for replying.

[IRonMaN · Accepted solution]

Unless they have a written prescription for that specific food, you aren’t going to get a tax deduction for off the shelf groceries.

[BobKamman]

Patient was referred to specialist, Dr. Poppins, who diagnosed dysphagia.  Following consultation with pharmacist, approval was given of substances used to facilitate swallowing prescribed medication.  IRS confirmed that you can include the cost of special food in medical expenses if it doesn't satisfy normal nutritional needs, it alleviates or treats an illness, and the need for the food is substantiated by a physician.

[IRonMaN]

Nice stretch.  Did you play first base when you were a kid? 😀  

[BobKamman]

@IRonMaN No, I just like to play "Getting to Yes" when the knee-jerk IRS auditor wannabes are playing "Getting to No You."

[IRonMaN]

It's a lot easier getting to yes when you create your own set of facts 😁