FAQ: Are Wheelchair Vans Tax Deductible?

Elderly woman in wheelchair filling out medical form

A question we are often asked by our clients is, “Is my wheelchair accessible van tax deductible?” Here’s a breakdown of what the IRS considers an “allowable deduction” regarding transportation and mobility equipment.

Are Wheelchair Vans Tax Deductible?

IRS Publication 502 states that “the cost of special hand controls and other special equipment installed in a car for the use of a person with a disability” is an allowable deduction. While this means the full cost of your wheelchair accessible vehicle cannot be deducted, you may be able to deduct the equipment that makes your van accessible such as transfer seats, hand controls, securement systems, and more. Under Publication 502, the difference between the cost of a “regular car” and a car designed to hold a wheelchair can be included in medical expenses.

Is Your Wheelchair Tax Deductible?

The amount you pay for a wheelchair, as well as the cost of operating and maintaining the wheelchair, can be included as a medical expense.

Does Transportation Count as a Medical Expense?

Transportation expenses that are paid primarily for, and essential to, medical care may be included as a medical expense, according to Publication 502.

“You can include out-of-pocket expenses, such as the cost of gas and oil, when you use a car for medical reasons. You can’t include depreciation, insurance, general repair, or maintenance expenses,” the publication states. “You can also include parking fees and tolls.”

However, there are a few important exceptions:

  • Going to and from work, even if your condition requires an unusual means of transportation
  • Travel for purely personal reasons to another city for an operation or other medical care
  • Travel that is merely for the general improvement of one’s health
  • The costs of operating a specially equipped car for other than medical reasons

Are There Limits on the Amount That Can Be Deducted?

You may deduct only the amount of your total medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, according to the IRS.

Tax season can be tricky to navigate on your own, which is why it’s always recommended that you reach out to a tax professional or take advantage of helpful resources through the IRS when in doubt. Our knowledgeable Certified Mobility Consultants can also help you secure any documentation you may need regarding your wheelchair accessible vehicle. Get in touch with us by calling 877-275-4907 or click here to fill out our contact form!

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