What medical expenses can you claim on tax in Australia?

No wonder we all need a healthcare professional at some point in life, then life insurance or medical claims play a vital role. Healthcare services might include taxes depending on the country and the types of services.

In Australia, most essential services can be GST-free. However, some health-related services do include GST. Medical expenses that were tax deductible had to fall under disability aids, attendant care and aged care.

Many Australians wonder whether they can claim medical expenses, like doctor visits or skin checks, on their tax return. It makes sense to ask, especially when medical bills can get expensive. There are still a few exceptions where you can get deductions, if not all. Let us help you understand in depth.

What Medical Expenses Can You Claim?

Even though most people can’t claim general medical costs anymore, a few exceptions exist. Let’s look at when you can still claim medical-related expenses on your tax return:

1. Work-Related Medical Expenses

In Australia, work-related medical expenses are one of the few categories where you can claim medical costs on your tax return. These expenses must be directly linked to your job and required by your employer. Some of the examples include:

• Medical check-ups or tests that are required to maintain or obtain specific work-related qualifications. These are specifically for truck drivers or related fields needing a medical certificate to prove they are fit for driving.
• Vaccinations or health checks for workers in high-risk jobs, such as healthcare workers who need vaccinations or have other medical tests before being allowed to work with patients.

• Safety or health tests are required before jobs involving exposure to chemicals or hazardous materials.
• Medical treatment or assessments for workers with specific occupational health and safety requirements, such as those who use heavy machinery.

You cannot claim general health costs, like regular doctor visits, dental work, unless the employer needs them.

2. Disability Aids or Tools

If you have a disability and need specific tools or aids to assist you in performing your job, you may be eligible to claim those expenses as tax deductions. People with disabilities can have items or services to make life more comfortable and independent. These include physical tools and software designed to assist with vision, hearing or other challenges. Some of the disability aids that can be claimed are:

• Wheelchairs, walking frames or scooters.
• Hearing aids or devices
• Vision aids
• Screen readers or adaptive keyboards.

The item must be essential for performing the individual’s job or assisting with their ability to work.

3. Medical Costs

As an Australian, medical costs are generally not tax-deductible, except in a few specific circumstances. The Net Medical Expenses Tax Offset allows individuals to claim a portion of medical expenses. Most routine healthcare expenses, like general doctor visits, hospital treatments, or dental care, can no longer be claimed on your tax return. However, these are a few exceptions:

• Work-related medical expenses can be claimed if they are directly connected to your job, such as mandatory health screenings or vaccinations.
• Disability-related medical costs are often deductible if they are necessary to perform your work or assist you in daily tasks.
• Hearing aids, prosthetics or mobility devices may also qualify for tax deductions.

Note that you cannot claim costs that are covered by health insurance.

4. NDIS and Carers

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and carers play a vital role in supporting people with disabilities in Australia. However, when it comes to claiming medical expenses on your tax return, the rules can be a little more complex.

If you are a carer, the costs of the care you provide for a person with a disability are also generally not deductible, especially if you are receiving any government payments. If you are a carer or a person receiving assistance through the NDIS, most medical and support-related expenses are typically already covered by government funding.

Can You Claim a Skin Check on Tax in Australia?

Skin checks are generally not tax-deductible. A skin check is considered a routine health care service, similar to a regular doctor’s visit or check-up, and is usually not related to your job or work activities. This means it doesn’t meet the requirements for a tax deduction under Australian tax laws. You can go for “Comprehensive Skin Check Near me” if you want your family to get a full-body checkup.

Here is more detailed information:

1. If your job involves working in high-risk environments, such as construction, farming, or outdoor work, and your employer requires you to have regular skin checks as part of health and safety protocols, then you may be able to claim it.
2. The employer should provide a written notice explaining the need for such checks as part of your employment. Additionally, you must pay for the skin check yourself, and it should not be reimbursed by your employer.
3. For the vast majority of Australians, however, skin checks for general health reasons are not considered a deductible medical expense, as they are regarded as personal medical care.

Do consult with your medical provider about what things can be covered in insurance and how all these are done.