For Caregivers
Question: May I claim a medical expense for amounts I paid for modifications made to my home to accommodate my parent’s medical condition?
Answer:
Your expense may qualify for a deduction as a medical expense, but the deduction may be limited.
- First, the expense will qualify only if your parent was your dependent either at the time the modifications/medical services were provided or at the time you paid the expense.
- Second, the modifications made to your home may be a capital expense if they are permanent improvements. In that case, the amount of the allowable medical expense is the cost of the modification decreased by any resulting increase to the value of your home.
- Finally, your total deduction for medical and dental expenses must be reduced by 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. See Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals and Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses Including the Health Coverage Tax Credit for additional information.
Category: IRS Procedures
Subcategory: For Caregivers
