How can I claim the money I spend on for my mothers healthcare (health insurance and medical expenses)?

[DanielV01 · Accepted solution]

It depends.  You may be able to claim these expenses under the medical expenses section of itemized deductions.  Please see this FAQ:  https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3300919.  You may be able to claim these expenses even if you do not claim your mother as your dependent

But you may be able to claim her as a dependent as well.  If her reportable income is less than $4050 (this would not include Social Security Income but would include a pension she receives), and you provide more than half of her support, then you may claim her as a dependent.  And if you provided more than half of her household support (slightly different but similar requirement), you may claim Head of Household even if you didn't live with her.

[dimplez]

Would claiming my mother as a dependent or as Head of Household entail her to stop filing for yearly taxes? I am wanting to make sure I understand how (important key steps needed) to do this when filing my taxes.

[DanielV01]

If you can claim her as a dependent, she should not have to file.  She can only have $4050 or less of reportable income.  So, if she gets a small pension and Social Security, she would not need to file, but she probably would file if she's having taxes taken out.   She can stop having taxes taken out and not worry about filing.  If she receives more than $4050 in pension, however, she is not your dependent.  She still may not have to file, but you won't be able to claim her.