I wish I could get atax breakfor the expenses I incur caring for my goldendoodle, Milo.
But like most pet necessities, those costs aren’t tax deductible.
However, there are times when you canclaim pet care expensesto get a bigger refund or smallertax bill.
Caring for service animals or fostering a pet are some examples.
But that’s not all.
Here are the pet-related deductions you’ve got the option to claim and how to claim them.
Service animals for a diagnosed medical condition may also qualify.
Even cats at popular cat cafes count because customers pay to have coffee with them.
That’s if these costs aren’t reimbursed to you by the nonprofit.
Pet influencers have become more common on social media.
This kind of work allows for tax write-offs for:
Read more:Tax Refund Subject to Change?
Regular check-ups, vaccines and preventive treatments are viewed as personal care – not qualifying medical expenses.
Pet insurance premiums:The premiums you pay for pet health coverage are considered a personal expense.
Keeping your pet insured for its health is important but it doesn’t translate into a tax break.
If the standard deduction is the better option, pet expenses won’t count.
It’ll make the tax filing process smoother and come in handy in case you’re audited.
If it’s possible for you to’t prove it, don’t deduct it.
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