Generally, no, you can't deduct Tai Chi classes as a medical expense. Deductions for exercise, fitness programs or swimming classes aren't acceptable unless the doctor recommends them as a specific treatment for a specific health problem. Have a written note from your doctor and keep it with your tax records.
Most items the IRS allows involve professional medical services or medically necessary purchases such as prescription drugs. Stuff that's just for good health -- low-cal meals, working out -- is usually disallowed.
Doctor's Orders: If you join a weight-loss program because your doctor says you need it to treat your high-blood pressure or your heart condition, you have a legitimate write-off. You still can't deduct your gym membership, but separate fees for weight-loss programs at the gym are deductible.
For additional information on what medical expense is deductible and what medical expense is not deductible, see
2016 Publication 502 - IRS.gov.
To enter medical expenses:
Medical, dental, and vision expenses are reported on Schedule A and entered in the Deductions & Credits section:
- Open your tax return.
(To do this, sign in to TurboTax and click the orange Take me to my return button.)
- Search for Schedule A and then click the "Jump to" link in the search results.
- Answer Yes on the Did you have any medical expenses in 2016? screen.
- You will then be prompted to enter your medical expenses, starting with prescriptions.
If you're using Federal Free Edition or Basic and your medical expenses are large enough that you would benefit from itemizing deductions, you'll be prompted to upgrade to Deluxe, as the Federal Free and Basic versions do not handle Schedule A.
