Can you deduct the cost of a caregiver?

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professionals,

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Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here is a way for nurses administrators, social workers and other health care professionals to get an easyceu or two

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Michael Gilfix

Yes, assuming that they are "qualified long term care services." To satisfy the IRS, you have to verify, primarily by a carefully written letter from her personal physician, that states that a) she is chronically ill b) the services are provided in accordance with the physician's plan of care, and c) she required care and supervision to protect her from threats to her health and safety due, for example, to her diminished capacity. Her CPA will rely on Section 213 of the Internal Revenue Code in determining whether or not your mother's care qualifies.

Note: Physicians don't think about tax deductions when they care for their patients. Its OK to tell them about this opportunity and about the need for an appropriate letter or written plan.

Also, these expenses can only be itemized deductions if they exceed 7.5% of her adjusted gross income.

Remember to issue 1099s for each of the caregivers and submit to the IRS at year end.

Alzheimer's and Home Health Care Costs

Brian Willie

For many families, home health care is the way to go to take care
of their loved one with Alzheimer's. That is, at least for awhile.

There are some very good home health care providers, but they can
be very expensive. The average cost is $16-24/hour. For the family
that needs moderate levels of help, this may not be bad, but as
care needs increase, and more and more hours must be spent on home
health care, the Alzheimer's family will face tremendous expenses.

I recently met with someone who runs a home health service and she
told me that it's not uncommon for round the clock care to cost as
much as $3,600 a week!

We will talk more about how a little known Veteran's Benefit can
often be used to offset some of the tremendous costs of home health
for your loved one with Alzheimer's.

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia articles and activities,