Ask Dr. Cliff - Are Hearing Aids Tax Deductible?

Navigating the labyrinth of tax laws and regulations can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to medical expenses. One question that often arises for individuals with hearing loss is,

"Are hearing aids tax deductible?"

This article will delve deep into this subject, shedding light on the interplay between hearing aids and tax deductions.

Understanding The Basics

Hearing loss is a common medical condition affecting millions of Americans. For many, hearing aids are an essential tool in managing this condition, improving their quality of life and ability to communicate. However, the financial burden of hearing aids can be significant, with costs often running into thousands of dollars.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recognizes hearing loss as a medical condition. Consequently, costs related to treating hearing loss, including hearing aids, fall under the umbrella of medical expenses for tax purposes. But as with many tax-related matters, the specifics can get complicated.

The Quick Answer

The short answer to the question, "Are hearing aids tax deductible?" is yes. The IRS considers hearing aids, along with related costs such as batteries, maintenance, and repairs, as eligible medical expenses. This means you may be able to deduct these costs from your taxes, potentially reducing your tax liability. However, there are certain conditions and limitations you must meet to qualify for these deductions.

Itemized Deductions

To deduct hearing aid costs, you need to itemize your deductions on your tax return. This option is often beneficial for taxpayers who have significant deductible expenses that exceed the standard deduction amount. For the tax year 2022, the standard deductions are $12,400 for individuals and $24,800 for married couples filing jointly.

Medical expenses, including those related to hearing aids, can be part of these itemized deductions. However, there's a catch. The IRS only allows you to deduct the portion of your medical expenses that exceeds 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). Let's break this down with an example.

Deduction Calculation, an Example

Let’s say John has an annual income of $50,000 and is curious about the potential tax deductions he might get from his recent hearing aid purchase.

To start, we need to determine if John's medical expenses surpass 7.5% of his total income.

Breaking it down: 

John's income: $50,000 7.5% of John's income: $50,000 x 0.075 = $3,750

This threshold isn't just for hearing aids but for all of John's medical expenses throughout the year.

This year, John spent $5,000 on hearing aids and had other medical bills amounting to $1,000, summing up to $6,000 in total medical expenses.

Here's the math: John's total medical expenses: $6,000 

Threshold based on his income: $3,750 

Potential tax deduction: $6,000 - $3,750 = $2,250

So, John could potentially deduct $2,250 from his taxes due to his medical expenses, including his new hearing aids.

Disclaimer: I am not an accountant or tax attorney and this is just an example calculation based on existing information. Please consult with a tax professional to get specific information and a recommendation based on your situation. 

What Counts As Medical Expenses?

The IRS provides guidelines on what can be considered medical and dental expense deductions. Apart from hearing aids, these can include:

• Fees paid to doctors, dentists, surgeons, psychiatrists, psychologists, and non-traditional medical practitioners.
• Costs for inpatient hospital care or residential nursing home care.
• Expenses for treatments like acupuncture, smoking cessation programs, and weight-loss programs related to specific diseases.
• Costs for insulin and prescription drugs.
• Costs for dentures, eyeglasses, and guide dogs for the deaf or blind.

Moreover, costs associated with traveling to medical appointments can also be included in your medical expense calculations. This can cover public transport fares, gas, tolls, parking, and even ambulance services if necessary.

What About Hearing Aid Batteries, Repairs, and Maintenance?

Yes, these costs are also considered medical expenses and therefore qualify for tax deductions. This includes not only the purchase price of the hearing aids but also ongoing costs such as batteries, repairs, and maintenance. It's essential to keep all receipts and records related to these expenses to substantiate your deductions if the IRS ever questions them.

Other Tax Considerations

Beyond the medical expense deduction, there are a few other tax credits and considerations that can affect individuals with hearing loss. For instance:

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

HSAs are tax-advantaged savings accounts that you can use to pay for qualifying medical expenses, including hearing aids. Contributions to HSAs are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for eligible medical costs are tax-free.

Disability Tax Credit

The disability tax credit is designed for individuals who are at least 65 years old, retired early due to their disability, and receive taxable disability income. Your audiologist must sign a statement confirming your hearing loss and how its severity prevents you from working.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The EITC is a tax credit for low to moderate-income working individuals and couples, particularly those with children. The amount of the credit varies depending on your income, filing status, and how many children you have.

Conclusion

While the cost of hearing aids can be high, tax deductions can help alleviate some of this financial burden. Understanding the tax laws related to hearing aids and medical expenses can help you take full advantage of these potential savings. However, tax laws can be complex, and it's always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to ensure you're maximizing your deductions and staying within IRS guidelines.

Remember, investing in your hearing health is not just a financial decision; it's a step towards enhancing your quality of life. At Applied Hearing Solutions in Phoenix, AZ, we're committed to helping you navigate your hearing journey, including understanding the financial aspects. Whether you're considering hearing aids for the first time or need help with your existing devices, don't hesitate to reach out to us.