Is WLS tax deductible?

[Success2013 186]

My sister had surgery a year before I did, we were both self pay. She said we couldn't deduct it on our income tax because it's considered cosmetic, since we did medically qualify for insurance to pay.

Edited January 12, 2014 by Success2013

[Kindle 8,667]

According to Publication 17 on the IRS website, "weight-loss, certain expenses for obesity" are deductible, while "weight-loss expenses not for the treatment of obesity or other disease" are not deductible. So I guess if your BMI says you were obese prior to surgery or if you have any weight-related Heath issues then, yes it is. If you were just "overweight" or did things like Lipo, etc. then maybe not. I, personally, am deducting everything...surgery, lodging, travel and meds.

[Success2013 186]

I'm certainly hoping I can. I was 232 pounds and considered obese and they repaired my hiatal hernia. I have thyroid disease etc. but no heart problems, diabetes or documented sleep apnea.

[Kindle 8,667]

I didn't have any comorbidities, either. It wouldn't have mattered, because my insurance doesn't pay for WLS in any way shape or form, no matter what obesity complications you have. The hiatal hernia repair should definitely swing your surgery into the medically necessary category. I am, by no means, a tax expert, though, so maybe a call to a free tax consultant would make you feel better.

[Who Dat 70461 331]

Spoke with our CPA last week and he said we could deduct all of the expenses, due to having comorbidities. My wife and I were both sleeved last year, 100% out of pocket, so for once, I'm looking forward to having my taxes done!

[Success2013 186]

Spoke with our CPA last week and he said we could deduct all of the expenses, due to having comorbidities. My wife and I were both sleeved last year, 100% out of pocket, so for once, I'm looking forward to having my taxes done!

What would qualify for comorbidity?

[MNMema 82]

comorbitities are: diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, acid reflux(hiatal hernia). I was just sleeved on 1/7 but paid over 1/2 of my self pay in Dec. and yes, I am deducting everything I have paid for up until the end of the year. Good luck!!!