topic Is type 1 diabetes considered a disability in a dependent? in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Is type 1 diabetes considered a disability in a dependent?

johna185 — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:28:55 GMT

My child is 13 and insulin dependent.

Re: Is type 1 diabetes considered a disability in a dependent?

DawnC — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:40:30 GMT

No, the label applies to those not able to work which won't apply to your minor-aged dependent. For federal tax purposes in 2026, an individual is generally considered permanently and totally disabled if they meet a specific definition involving their ability to work and the duration of their condition. The IRS generally requires a physician's statement certifying the disability.

The individual must be unable to work or engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a physical or mental condition. And a qualified physician must certify that the condition:

Has lasted continuously for at least 12 months.
Is expected to last continuously for at least 12 months.
Or is expected to result in death

Re: Is type 1 diabetes considered a disability in a dependent?

xmasbaby0 — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:47:09 GMT

Do I get a credit or deduction if my child is disabled?

If your child is older than 12 and you need to pay someone to take care of him while you work, you can say he is disabled and you can still get the childcare credit on your federal return. Or if he is 19 or older you may still be able to claim him as a qualifying child dependent on your federal return.

Aside from those things, there is no federal tax advantage to saying that your child is disabled. Your state tax laws might be different.