FACTCHECK: Can you get tax back on the cost of your face mask?
With face coverings now mandatory in all shops and many public spaces due to COVID-19, many taxpayers have been wondering whether the cost of purchasing masks and face coverings are considered and eligible medical expense.
As the purpose behind the masks is to stop the spread of the virus, many taxpayers have been wondering whether the money they have spent on face coverings qualifies as an eligible medical expense.
Tax relief at 20% is available for a wide range of medical expenses including doctor & consultant bills, prescriptions, physio, non-routine dental care and much more.
But if you’re about to claim tax relief on your mask receipts, it might be time to think again.
In short, Revenue have yet to indicate that face masks qualify as a medical expense.
However, it would not be unprecedented for the government to offer tax relief on face coverings.
In fact, some countries have already begun including face masks as a medical expense, for example – in Australia, workers that require physical contact or close proximity with customers or clients during COVID-19 measures may be able to claim a deduction for purchasing face masks.
After all, masks have only been made mandatory very recently. Revenue is likely still considering its position on the issue.
So while you can’t claim tax back on your masks just yet, the good news is that there are a number of common medical expenses that can be claimed right now!
Here's some examples of medical expenses that qualify for relief:
1. Doctor fees
Did you know that every time you visit the doctor, you're entitled to claim tax relief at 20%?
So if you pay €300 in GP bills this year, you are entitled to claim back €60!
What's more, you are entitled to claim if you pay the cost for yourself or on behalf of a loved one.
2. Physiotherapy
Have a twinge in your back recently? Do your knees give you trouble?
If you pay for sessions with a physio, you're entitled to claim tax back.
Chiropractors, osteopaths, and acupuncture all fall under this category too, as long as you visit a qualified practitioner.
3. Non-routine dental expenses
If you have been to the dentist and paid for non-routine expenses such as crowns, veneers, root canals, and bridgework, and more – you will be entitled to a tax refund of 20% of the cost.
4. Prescriptions
You are entitled to claim back on the costs of a medication that a doctor prescribes you.
You may also claim back on costs of maintaining a suitable diet if you're Coeliac or Diabetic and your doctor advises it!
5. Scans and diagnostic procedures
Not many people know that you can claim back on the costs associated with X-Rays, MRIs and CAT scans, as well as other diagnostic procedures.
Owed medical expenses?
How to claim your tax back
Every year countless Irish taxpayers leave thousands of euro with the tax man. Don’t let this happen to you.
Taxback.com offers the most comprehensive tax refund service available.
Our Irish tax team will complete a full four year review of your tax situation and ensure you claim every tax relief you’re entitled to so you get your maximum irish tax rebates.
The average Irish tax refund is €1,880
The average amount a Taxback.com customer receives is €1,880 – so it's definitely worth finding out how much you're due.
Plus, if you have any questions surrounding your tax entitlements, you can reach out to our Live Chat team anytime 24/7!
To claim your tax back today, simply complete the short form here.
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