Here is how it works.
If you itemize your tax return and your total medical expenses for the year exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income, you can write off certain expenses associated with celiac disease. You can deduct the excess cost of a gluten-free product over a comparable gluten-containing product. NY Times
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Ok that is good news - so here is an example of how it would work.
Let’s say you spend $6.50 on a loaf of gluten-free bread, and a regular loaf costs $4; you can deduct $2.50. In addition, you can deduct the cost of products necessary to maintain a gluten-free diet, like xanthan gum for baking. If you mail order gluten-free products, the shipping costs may be deductible, too. If you have to travel extra miles to buy gluten-free goods, the mileage is also deductible. You’ll need a doctor’s letter to confirm your diagnosis and your need for a gluten-free diet, and you should save receipts in case of a tax audit. NY Times |
Bad News - Insurance companies reluctant to offer coverage of gluten free diets.
Patients inclure an extra cost of a special diet and the cost is not usually reimbursed by health care plans.Trips to a dietitian to receive nutritional guidance are also rarely covered.
Ok that is good news - so here is an example of how it would work.
Let’s say you spend $6.50 on a loaf of gluten-free bread, and a regular loaf costs $4; you can deduct $2.50. In addition, you can deduct the cost of products necessary to maintain a gluten-free diet, like xanthan gum for baking. If you mail order gluten-free products, the shipping costs may be deductible, too. If you have to travel extra miles to buy gluten-free goods, the mileage is also deductible. You’ll need a doctor’s letter to confirm your diagnosis and your need for a gluten-free diet, and you should save receipts in case of a tax audit. NY Times
Raising Celiac Awareness Online
There are many online resources that provide current, comprehensive, science-based information about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of celiac disease. Please visit my site for helpful links and reources.