Medical & Health Deductions
Understanding which medical and health expenses may qualify for tax deductions—from vision and dental to prescriptions, therapy, and medical travel.
Medical expenses can add up quickly, but many people don’t realize that a significant portion of their healthcare costs may be tax-deductible. From prescription medications to dental work and even travel for medical care, understanding what may qualify can help you make informed tax decisions.
The IRS allows you to deduct unreimbursed medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). This threshold means you’ll need to itemize deductions rather than taking the standard deduction, but for those with significant medical costs, the deduction can be substantial.
Below, we’ve organized common medical and health deductions into detailed guides. Each category explains what expenses may qualify, documentation requirements, and important considerations. Always consult a licensed tax professional or CPA for advice specific to your situation.
Browse All Medical & Health Deductions
Click any category below to learn what may qualify, documentation requirements, and how to claim these deductions.
Vision Expense Deduction
Glasses, contact lenses, eye exams, and LASIK surgery may be deductible. Learn what vision costs qualify and how to document them properly.
Read Full Guide →Medical Equipment Deduction
Wheelchairs, crutches, hearing aids, blood pressure monitors, and other medical devices may qualify. Includes durable medical equipment guidelines.
Read Full Guide →Prescription Medication Deduction
Prescription drugs and insulin may be deductible. Learn what medications qualify and how to track pharmacy expenses throughout the year.
Read Full Guide →Dental Costs Deduction
Cleanings, fillings, crowns, braces, dentures, and oral surgery may qualify. Covers both preventive and restorative dental care.
Read Full Guide →Therapy and Mental Health Deduction
Psychotherapy, counseling, and psychiatric care may be deductible medical expenses. Includes both in-person and telehealth sessions.
Read Full Guide →Medical Travel Deduction
Mileage, tolls, parking, and even lodging for medical appointments may qualify. Learn how to calculate and document travel expenses.
Read Full Guide →Health Insurance Premium Deduction
Self-employed individuals may deduct health insurance premiums. Includes medical, dental, and long-term care insurance guidelines.
Read Full Guide →Mental Health Services Deduction
Inpatient treatment, rehabilitation programs, and psychiatric hospital stays may be deductible. Covers a wide range of mental health care.
Read Full Guide →Alternative Medicine Deduction
Acupuncture, chiropractor visits, and other alternative treatments may qualify if medically necessary. Learn what the IRS considers deductible.
Read Full Guide →General Medical Costs Overview
Comprehensive overview of what medical expenses may be deductible, AGI calculation methods, and itemization requirements.
Read Full Guide →