Can I deduct my gym membership fees on my federal taxes if my doctor prescribes it for health reasons?
Christopher B asked:
My doctor told me that I have to join a gym because I have just been diagnosed diabetes and am severely overweight. Can I write off the membership costs and any personal training fees on my federal taxes as a legitimate medical expense?
See your 2008 Updated Credit Report here
Tags:Medical Expense,Overweight,Personal Training
My doctor told me that I have to join a gym because I have just been diagnosed diabetes and am severely overweight. Can I write off the membership costs and any personal training fees on my federal taxes as a legitimate medical expense?
See your 2008 Updated Credit Report here
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Filed under: United States on July 5th, 2009
See your 2008 Updated Credit Report here
If there is a direct medical reason and your doctor is willing to put it in writing that he specifically prescribed a fitness program to help you control your weight and diabetes, then yes, it’s deductible. The key here is to make sure your doctor gives you very clear documentation in case the IRS has questions.
Ninasgramma is generally correct when stating that health club memberships aren’t allowed; however, Rev. Rul. 2002-19 specifically states that “A weight-loss program is a medical expense if undertaken to relieve a disease or defect, such as obesity or hypertension”.
See your 2008 Updated Credit Report here
Although medical treatment for obesity is deductible, the IRS specifically states that gym membership dues, even though recommended for health reasons, are not deductible.
Quote from IRS Pub 502:
You cannot include membership dues at a gym, health club, or spa as medical expenses, but you can include separate fees charged there as weight loss activities.