About Tax Deductible Items for the Disabled

If you are disabled, there are a number of tax deductions, credits and income exclusions that you can take to lower your taxable income. If you are blind, you may qualify for a higher standard deduction. To ensure that you maximize your deductions, let your accountant know of any potential deductions.

Exclusions

VA disability benefits, SSI and other payments related to your disability may be excluded from your taxable income. Refer to IRS Publication 525 for details (see Resources).

Work Expenses

If your disability requires that you have assistance while on the job (a sign language interpreter, for example), you may be able to deduct those expenses. Refer to IRS Publication 529 for details (see Resources).

Credit for the Elderly or Disabled

If you are over the age of 65 or on total disability and receiving disability income, you qualify for the Credit for the Elderly or Disabled.

Home Improvements

Necessary improvements made to your home because of your disability may be deductible as medical expenses.

Medical Expenses

There are a number of medical expenses that are deductible. Medical expenses exceeding 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income (AGI) may be deductible. For a complete list, refer to IRS Publication 502 (see Resources).

Resources

• IRS Publication 524
• IRS Publication 503
• IRS Publication 502