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ANNUAL certification of Alz for tax deduction of expenses??

As I understand, my mother with alz can claim tax deductions for some or all of her assisted living expenses related to alzheimers.   Since she wouldn't be there were it not for her diagnosis, just about all of her AL expenses seem to be deductible.  The IRS, however, also says  that the condition must be certified within the previous 12 months.  What is the experience or practice of other families with alz loved one in AL?  Does anyone go back to their doctor EVERY year for a certification that yes, mom does still have alz??  Is there any documentation that IRS recognizes the alz diagnosis as forever - not just for the coming 12 months?  Thanks for any input.

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  • loveskitties
    loveskitties Member Posts: 1,081
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    From what I have read, the re-certification confirms that at least 2 or more conditions of needed care exist.  Is there a doctor associated with the care facility who does these?  

    I realize how crazy it sounds...in fact I live with a similar restriction on ostomy supplies which have to be prescribed in order for Medicare to pay for them.  This means that I have to see a doctor just to get a new prescription, even though my ostomy is permanent.   Doesn't make sense, but who said the government rules and regs always make sense?

    Thanks for posting this as I was not aware of this deduction.  Will make sure my family knows of it.

  • [Deleted User]
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  • King Boo
    King Boo Member Posts: 302
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    A PWD usually sees a MD more than once  a year.  Just make sure the dx of dementia is on the report.

    Regarding documentation of levels of care - we needed it and had the Director of the Unit write a letter.  Very common, she had a boiler plate one on her computer,it was a frequent request.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
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