Is the cost for a shingles shot deductible for over 65

[e_tull]

No

[ChristinaS · Accepted solution]

Sure. Medical care expenses must be primarily to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental defect or illness.

Getting a shot for shingles surely fits this. (say that 3 times!)

A shingles vaccine is a valid medical expense no matter what your age.

Are your medical expenses greater than 7.5% of your income? Just remember that medical expenses have to be pretty substantial to benefit your tax return. You must also itemize on Schedule A and not take the standard deduction.

[ChristinaS]

Just want to add a side note that the IRS isn't particularly explicit in this area. As with any medical expense to alleviate or prevent an illness, you should have a basis for the shot (preferably doctor Rx, but not necessarily)

[ksimonsez38]

Is the shingles vaccination considered a prescription and therefore a deductible expense?

[ksimonsez38]

I'm disappointed, but thank you.

[Mike9241]

vaccines you pay for are a medical expense. if you do not have insurance coverage, then what you paid in 2020 is deductible