Smart Strategies to Maximize Tax Benefits with Medical Deductions
Navigating the world of taxes can be complex, especially when it involves significant medical or long-term care expenses. However, with the right strategies, you can turn these challenges into opportunities for tax efficiency.
First things first, what counts as a deductible expense? The IRS allows you to deduct medical expenses, including certain long-term care costs, that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). Think of AGI as your total income minus specific deductions. These expenses can range from treatments for various health conditions to preventive measures. To claim these deductions, you’ll need to itemize them on your tax return. This is where you list all your deductible expenses individually, as opposed to taking a standard deduction, which is a flat amount. Itemizing makes sense when the total of all your deductions, including medical expenses, surpasses the standard deduction.
Let’s explore some smart tactics that go hand-in-hand with deducting medical expenses.
1. Timing Your Medical Expenses:
One key strategy is to time your medical expenses. If you anticipate high medical costs in a particular year, consider accelerating other planned medical procedures or treatments into the same year. By bunching these expenses, you increase your chances of surpassing the 7.5% AGI threshold, making more of your expenses deductible.
2. Roth IRA Conversion in High Medical Expense Years:
If you’re facing a year with substantial medical expenses, it might be an opportune time for a Roth IRA conversion. Why? Because your taxable income will be lower due to the high medical deductions. Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA involves paying taxes now in exchange for tax-free withdrawals later. Doing this in a year when your taxable income is reduced by significant medical expenses can mean paying less tax on the converted amount.
3. Utilizing a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA):
If you have access to an HSA or FSA, use it to your advantage. Contributions to these accounts are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. This can be a double tax benefit – you lower your taxable income and pay for medical expenses with pre-tax dollars.
4. Reviewing Investment Strategies:
In years with high medical expenses, it might be wise to review your investment strategies. For instance, selling investments that have lost value (a strategy known as tax-loss harvesting) can offset capital gains and further reduce your AGI, potentially increasing your medical expense deduction.
5. Considering State-Specific Deductions:
Some states offer additional deductions or lower thresholds for medical expenses. Be sure to explore your state’s tax laws to see if there are extra benefits you can claim.
Conclusion:
Dealing with significant medical expenses can be challenging, but with the right tax strategies, you can alleviate some of the financial burdens. By understanding how to time expenses, considering Roth conversions, utilizing HSAs or FSAs, adjusting investment strategies, and being aware of state-specific deductions, you can optimize your tax situation. Tax laws are complex and ever-changing. It’s wise to consult a tax professional or a financial planner. They can provide personalized advice based on the latest laws and your specific situation.
Trevor Yochum, CFP®, CIMA®, MBA
Investment Advisor, Managing Partner
Incompass Financial Partners
O: 770.971.9141 | FAX: 770.971.4224
4994 Lower Roswell Rd Ste 4
Marietta, GA 30068
incompassfp.com
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