Good news for many of you breastfeeding mamas out there! The IRS has announced that breast pumps and accessories can in some cases be considered a tax write off. The IRS states, “Breast pumps and supplies that assist lactation are medical care under 213(d) of the Internal Revenue Code because, like obstetric care, they are for the purpose of affecting a structure or function of the body of the lactating woman.”
IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses, will now make forking over the big bucks for that breast pump a little easier on many families. Specifically, nursing mothers with flexible health spending accounts can use any pre-tax dollars that they set aside for these accounts to buy nursing pumps and other breast feeding supplies. For those of us without flexible spending accounts we may be able to deduct the cost of pumps if our total medical costs exceed 7.5 percent of our adjusted gross income.
As a breastfeeding and pumping mama I have spent my share of hard earned cash on pumps (i’m on my second one!), storage supplies, bottles and more. Although this tax deduction doesn’t include everyone and not all expenses are covered, it is a step in the right direction and hopefully just a preview of what is to come in the form of breastfeeding support from our government.
* The statement above is in no way to be considered legal or financial advice and I encourage you to do your research to find out if this tax deduction can assist you and your family. *
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