Tax Return Deduction Questions

[MCremer]

I have a few questions with regard to the "Deductions & Credits" section on Turbotax. I'd much prefer an accountant to answer these questions. So I tried doing my return last weekend but was not sure how to answer these. I am posting screen grabs to simplify things. When answering these, can I include the cost of health insurance premiums with either selection? I ask because I hit my out of pocket max of $3,500 with my health insurance and also paid about $1,200 in premiums. So obviously being able to select "Yes" hinges on whether I can include the premiums in my overall expenses. Thank you for your help!

[JulieS]

That depends on where you get your health insurance. If you get your health insurance through work, your premiums are paid with pretax dollars and you can't deduct the amount paid again.

If you have Marketplace coverage and you receive a 1095-A, you have to report your health insurance information in the section called Affordable Care Act (Form 1095-A). You would not report your insurance in the section you are asking about.

If you are self-employed and pay for your own health insurance, you should take the self-employed health insurance deduction. Once again, not in the section you are asking about.

If you pay out of pocket for your health insurance, with after tax dollars, you can include your health insurance here. The same rules apply for dental and optical coverage, and also for long term care insurance.