According to the 502 publication of the IRS some medical costs can be deducted when filing income tax. In its opinion letter Index No.: 213.05-00, “Section 213(a) allows as a [tax] deduction the expenses paid during the taxable year for medical care of the taxpayer, spouse, or dependent. Under § 213(d)(1)(A), an expense is for ‘medical care’ if its primary purpose is the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease.

If a medical professional has diagnosed a medical condition that can be cured or relieved with hydrotherapy or swimming, a consumer may be able to claim a hot tub purchase as a tax deduction. Because a hot tub or spa is of a particularly personal nature, the consumer must establish that a hot tub is primarily for the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease before the cost can be deducted. ThermoSpas, a national hot tub manufacturer and retailer, encourages those suffering who may benefit physically or mentally from warm water therapy, to discuss the benefits of a hot tub or pool with a qualified medical care professional.

Capital improvement expenses can be deducted for the installation of special equipment in the home. The purpose of its installation should be for medical care of either the spouse or any of the dependents living in that home. Those improvements that increase the value of property can be included partially as medical expenses. If the improvements have absolutely no effect on property value the entire cost of installation can be considered as a medical expense. Consumers may need to have property appraised to determine if the value has or has not increased.

Consumers who have purchased a hot tub or spa for medical benefits to contact both medical and tax professionals before deducting the cost of the hot tub or any related equipment.

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