The usual disclaimers apply (you are not my legal or financial representative, etc).
My son is autistic. We are spending a lot of money on services for him. Does anyone know if any of this can be deducted? If so, how (under what rules, for example)?
Thank you.
Families often incur a myriad of expenses because of their child’s treatment and life style expenses many of which are deductible as medical expenses. Taxpayers who itemize deductions can claim medical expenses to the extent that they exceed 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income .The challenge is to be aware of which expenses may be allowable and to keep track of them.
Aside from the traditionally well known medical expenses such as prescriptions, doctors and dental treatments, eyeglasses, lab and hospital tests, therapies and health insurance premiums, there are many other deductible expenses you may not readily think of.
Your physical or speech therapist may recommend certain activities, such as music lessons, gymnastics, horseback riding, swimming, or other sports activities as an adjunct to the therapy. These expenses, as well as travel to and from these activities are also deductible. Be sure to ask your therapist or doctor to write an updated note recommending the suggested activity for your tax files.
In addition, you may choose to attend workshops or informative seminars or conferences about your child’s disability and treatment. The cost of these conferences as well as travel and lodging costs ($50 per night per person) may be deductible.
http://www.autismsupportnetwork.com/news/tax-planning-parents-children-autism-221234
If there’s ANY question that something may be covered or deductible, keep the receipts, bills, and any accompanying paperwork. The worst that can happen is that something isn’t deductible after all.