Does Wellness and Nutrition Qualify as Medical Expenses? IRS Answers

Contrary to some claims about wellness and nutrition as medical expenses, The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued a bulletin that these are not eligible for tax refunds.

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Advertisements that lead taxpayers astray

When it comes to general health and wellness, there are misconceptions about what could be considered medical expenses. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) points up those expenses such as food and fitness equipment can not be considered medical expenses deductible even though some aggressive campaigns are claiming the contrary. In a report from FingerLakes1, buying food to help weight loss and other health purposes cannot be qualified for reimbursements.

Even a doctor’s note does not guarantee conversion of non-medical expenses to qualify. Dany Werfel, IRS Commissioner, emphasized following tax law on legitimate medical expenses. He also cautioned the taxpayers not to be persuaded by marketing campaigns that promote personal expenditures for reimbursement.

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Avoid penalties and denied claims

The IRS urged taxpayers to check the frequently asked questions on its website especially if with doubts about medical expenses. They have a section on medical expenses that is related to wellness and nutrition. This should help taxpayers to avoid penalties or having their claims denied because of misclassified expenses.

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