Where in medical deductions should I enter the cost of stair railings installed for my husband? Is it considered medical equipment?

[IreneS · Accepted solution]

Yes - The railings can be considered medical equipment, but the deduction may be limited.  According to IRS Pub. 502 - Medical and Dental Expenses,  if the railings increase the value of your property, the cost of the railings is reduced by the increase in the value of your property. The difference is a medical expense. If the value of your property isn't increased by the improvement, the entire cost is included as a medical expense.

Expenses for medical equipment are entered under medical expenses. Please keep in mind the following about deducting your medical expenses, including medical equipment:

• You don't get the benefit if you are taking the standard deduction.
• If you itemize deductions, you will only be able to take total medical expenses that are greater than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.

To enter your medical expenses in TurboTax, please follow these steps:

1. Click on Federal Taxes > Deductions & Credits 
2. In the Medical section, click on the Start/Revisit box next to Medical Expenses. 
3. Continue through the screens until you reach Tell us about anything spent on medical supplies and equipment.  Enter the amount of the expense and click Continue.