How can I claim my medical expenses for tax purposes?
August 16, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Christine Witzelmann
Dear tax advisor,
My name is Helma Schulze and I have a question regarding the tax deductibility of my medical expenses. In the past few months, I have had several medical examinations, treatments, and medications that have financially burdened me. My expenses for doctor visits, medications, therapies, and hospital stays have significantly increased, and I am now wondering if and how I can claim these costs on my taxes.
I am unsure of whether and in what form I can report my medical expenses in my tax return. I have never considered medical expenses in my tax return before and therefore am not familiar with the tax regulations in this area. I would like to know which costs are exactly deductible and how I can correctly report them in my tax return.
I am worried that I may be missing out on money by not claiming my medical expenses on my taxes. Additionally, it would greatly help me financially if I could at least get back a portion of the high expenses for my health.
Could you please explain to me which medical expenses are tax deductible and how I can report them in my tax return? Are there specific requirements that I need to meet in order to deduct my medical expenses? I would greatly appreciate your help and advice on this matter.
Sincerely,
Helma Schulze
Dear Mrs. Schulze,
Thank you for your question regarding the tax deductibility of medical expenses. It is understandable that you are concerned about how to reduce the financial burden of your medical costs. I am happy to explain to you which medical expenses are tax deductible and how you can report them in your tax return.
In general, you can claim extraordinary expenses in your tax return, including medical expenses. This includes costs for doctor visits, medication, therapies, hospital stays, rehabilitation measures, medical aids, as well as preventive and rehabilitation measures. Even travel expenses for medical treatments may be deductible under certain circumstances.
However, in order for your medical expenses to be recognized for tax purposes, they must meet certain requirements. Firstly, the costs must have actually been incurred, meaning you must be able to provide corresponding documents such as invoices, receipts, or transfer slips. Additionally, the expenses must be for your personal living expenses and be extraordinary, meaning they must not be part of normal living expenses.
In your tax return, you can report medical expenses as part of extraordinary expenses. You will need to fill out a corresponding form and break down the costs. It is important to collect and keep all receipts, as the tax office may want to see them in case of an audit.
It is advisable to inquire with a tax advisor or the tax office in advance about which costs are exactly deductible and how to correctly report them in your tax return. Tax regulations change every year, so it is important to stay up to date.
I hope that this information was helpful to you and I am happy to answer any further questions you may have. I wish you all the best and a speedy recovery.
Sincerely,
Christine Witzelmann
