Are massages a deductible medical expense on income taxes?

Massages for medical purposes may be tax deductible as a medical expense. Generally, eligible medical expenses are those that help diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent disease, or those relating to the structure or function of the body. If a massage is prescribed by a doctor for a specific medical condition and is not primarily intended for general relaxation or cosmetic purposes, then it may be considered a deductible medical expense.

To claim the deduction, you must itemize your deductions instead of taking the standard deduction. And you must also meet certain other requirements, such as having enough qualifying medical expenses to exceed a specified threshold.

Additional tips:

1. Always consult with a tax professional to ensure you follow the latest rules and regulations regarding tax deductions.

2. Keep all relevant documentation, such as receipts, prescription notes, and medical records related to your massage expenses, in case you need to provide proof for tax purposes.