Are Diabetes Supplies Tax Deductible? What You Need to Know

Tax season can feel overwhelming, but here's some good news — if you or a loved one manages diabetes, you may be able to deduct the cost of your diabetes supplies on your federal tax return. Understanding what qualifies can put real money back in your pocket. Let's break it down in plain, simple terms.

Can Diabetes Supplies Really Be Tax Deductible?

Yes! The IRS allows taxpayers to deduct qualified medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). Diabetes-related supplies are generally considered qualified medical expenses, which means they may count toward that threshold.

What Diabetes Supplies Typically Qualify?

A wide range of everyday diabetes management tools can qualify as deductible medical expenses. Always keep your receipts and purchase records to make filing easier.

• Blood glucose meters and lancets

• Test strips and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) supplies

• Insulin and insulin delivery devices like pens and syringes

• Insulin pumps and pump supplies

• Diabetic shoes and orthotics prescribed by a doctor

What Does NOT Qualify as a Deduction?

Not every diabetes-related purchase will make the cut for a tax deduction. The IRS has specific rules about what counts as a medical expense versus a general health or lifestyle expense.

• General health foods or 'diabetic-friendly' snacks

• Over-the-counter vitamins or supplements not prescribed by a doctor

• Gym memberships, even if recommended for blood sugar control

• Cosmetic or non-medically necessary items

How to Claim Your Diabetes Supply Deductions

To claim these deductions, you'll need to itemize your deductions on Schedule A of your federal tax return instead of taking the standard deduction. It's a good idea to consult a tax professional to make sure you're maximizing your eligible deductions.

• Gather all receipts for diabetes supplies purchased during the tax year

• Add up all qualifying medical expenses for yourself and dependents

• Subtract 7.5% of your AGI — only the amount above this threshold is deductible

• Use Schedule A (Form 1040) to itemize your medical expense deductions

• Work with a CPA or tax advisor if you have questions

Tips for Keeping Track of Your Diabetes Supply Expenses

Staying organized throughout the year makes tax time much less stressful. A few simple habits can help you capture every deductible dollar.

• Save all receipts and order confirmations from your diabetes supply purchases

• Use a dedicated folder — physical or digital — to store medical expense records

• Note the date, item, and amount for each purchase

• Check with your insurance provider for an annual summary of out-of-pocket costs

How Ordering From MDS Diabetes Can Simplify Things

When you order your diabetes supplies from MDS Diabetes, you get clear, itemized order histories that make documenting expenses straightforward at tax time. From CGM supplies and test strips to insulin pump accessories, MDS Diabetes carries a wide range of products that may qualify as deductible medical expenses.

Shop Diabetes Supplies at MDS Diabetes

Managing diabetes is already a full-time job — let MDS Diabetes make the supply side easier. Visit mdsdiabetes.com to browse our full selection of trusted diabetes supplies, or give us a call at (877) 861-3571. Our friendly team is here to help you find exactly what you need, at prices that make a difference.