is a chair lift tax deductible if prescribed by a doctor?

[wiltjones]

a lift installed on stairs in home

[MayaD · Accepted solution]

Yes, it is considered medical expense. 

If you itemize your deductions you may be able to deduct the medical and dental expenses you paid for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents during the taxable year to the extent these expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income for the year. 

Medical and dental expenses

[Opus 17]

Home improvements are not deductible medical expenses if they increase the value of the home.  If audited, you might need to show an opinion from a real estate agent or appraiser, but I would normally think that a stair lift does not increase the value of the home.

As a deductible medical expense, you might still not get any actual tax benefit, depending on your overall level of income and deductions.