Are Massages Tax-Deductible?

As tax season approaches, many individuals look for ways to maximize deductions and minimize their tax liabilities. One question that has gained attention is whether massages qualify for tax deductions. It's tempting to think of turning a relaxing spa visit into a legitimate tax deduction, but are massages tax-deductible?

In this guide, we will look into the details of whether massages are tax-deductible and under what circumstances. We will explore the specific criteria set by the IRS, shedding light on when massages may or may not be considered legitimate deductions.

Can I deduct massage therapy from my taxes?

It depends. If you are getting a massage for a medical reason with an official diagnosis, you might be eligible to deduct the expenses from your taxes.

The IRS allows for the deduction of medical expenses that include payments for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or payments for treatments affecting any structure or function of the body.

Doctors or licensed medical practitioners recommending medical massages for specific physical or mental issues could make them tax deductible.

Additionally, IRS guidelines consider payments to nontraditional medical practitioners, which may include licensed massage therapists, as potential deductible medical expenses.

Take note that it's important to ensure that the massage is prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner and that there is an official diagnosis for the condition being treated. You also have to keep records of your receipts and prescriptions to back up your claim.

When can I deduct the cost of a massage from my taxes?

There are various situations in which you might be eligible to claim a tax deduction for a massage. These circumstances include:

Doctor's Prescription

When the massage is prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner for a specific medical condition that has an official diagnosis.

Treatment, Mitigation, or Prevention of Disease

When the massage is used as part of a treatment plan for a diagnosed physical or mental health condition. According to the IRS, deductible medical expenses include payments for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, covering treatments affecting any structure or function of the body.

Non-traditional Medical Practitioners

As per the IRS guidelines, payments to nontraditional medical practitioners, which may include licensed massage therapists, could potentially be considered as deductible medical expenses.

What are examples of conditions that may qualify for a tax-deductible massage?

You may be wondering what specific conditions may make you eligible to deduct massages from your taxes. Conditions that may qualify for a tax-deductible massage include:

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Massages may be tax deductible if prescribed as a treatment for musculoskeletal disorders such as tendonitis, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or fibromyalgia.

If a licensed medical practitioner prescribes massage therapy to address musculoskeletal issues, it can be tax-deductible as a medical expense.

Mental Health Aid

If a licensed medical practitioner prescribes massages to aid in the treatment of mental health conditions like anxiety, panic attacks, depression, or trauma-related nervous breakdowns, you may be eligible to deduct the expenses.

Chronic Pain Management

If you suffer from chronic pain due to a diagnosed medical condition, massages may be prescribed as part of your treatment plan. In this case, massage therapy expenses can potentially be tax-deductible.

Physical Injuries

If you have suffered from a physical injury, massage therapy may be recommended by your doctor to aid in the healing process. In such cases, massage expenses could potentially be tax-deductible.

When is massage therapy NOT tax-deductible?

Unfortunately, not all massage therapy expenses can be deducted from your taxes. Here are some examples of when massage therapy may not be tax-deductible:

General Wellness Purposes

While massages can contribute to overall physical and mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and aiding in better sleep, these general wellness purposes do not qualify for IRS deductions.

HSA or FSA Payments

If you decide to pay for a massage with an HSA (health savings account) or FSA (flexible spending account), you cannot deduct it from your taxes, as per IRS regulations. An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account where individuals can save money to pay for qualified medical expenses, while an FSA is a similar employer-sponsored savings account.

Non-Medical Reasons

Massages obtained for non-medical purposes or for a medical condition that hasn't been officially diagnosed by a healthcare professional are not eligible for tax deduction. Additionally, it is not permissible to claim a massage as a business expense.

Get help from the best tax resolution experts

If you need help with your taxes, contact Federal Tax Resolution today! Our experts can make sure you are taking advantage of all eligible tax deductions, including those related to massage therapy. Don't miss out on potential savings, reach out to us for assistance!