Can I deduct medical expenses I pay for my kids?
My former spouse is the custodial parent claiming our kids on their return. Can I still deduct medical expenses that I pay for the kids?
Answers
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Hey knittingfun,
Yes, children of divorced parents are considered to be dependents of both parents in regards to medical expenses as long as the following applies:
1.) The child is in the custody of one or both parents.
2.) More than half of the financial support of the child comes from the two parents.
3.) You and the former spouses lived apart for more than half of the year.
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The main question you need to ask before getting to this point is whether or not you will be able to itemize your deductions. Fewer than 10% of taxpayers do so anymore. Please review Schedule A. Your total unreimbursed medical expenses have to exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, and then, when combined with mortgage interest, state and local taxes (capped at $10,000), and charitable contributions, have to exceed the standard deduction.
