Tax Time Checklist: Deducting LASIK & Saving Receipts

Not tax advice. Consult a tax professional; rules and thresholds can change.

At a glance

• Medical expense deductions: eligible out‑of‑pocket costs may be deductible above applicable AGI thresholds.
• Pre‑tax accounts: HSA/FSA funds can typically be used for eligible LASIK expenses.
• Documentation: keep detailed receipts and statements for all payments and medications.

Checklist: what to save

• Itemized clinic invoices showing procedure, date, and amounts paid
• Pharmacy receipts for prescribed drops related to surgery
• FSA/HSA account statements showing contributions and distributions
• Financing statements showing interest paid (if applicable)
• Travel receipts if medically necessary and permitted by current rules

Steps to prepare

1. Confirm eligibility: ask your tax advisor whether your situation qualifies
2. Gather documents: invoices, prescriptions, account statements
3. Track timing: align FSA contributions with surgery date; HSAs have different rules
4. Record totals: separate eligible medical costs from non‑eligible items

Common pitfalls

• Double‑counting: do not deduct amounts already paid with pre‑tax dollars
• Missing documentation: clinics can reissue statements—request them while details are fresh
• Assuming all add‑ons qualify: confirm eligibility of optional products

Final tip

Plan ahead if you’re targeting pre‑tax savings. A short call with a tax professional before surgery can help you maximize benefits and avoid surprises.