Should childless individuals be allowed a tax break for their pets?

Question

I just completed yet another tax return where the client included information about their pet.  Their dog needed surgery amounting to about $7,000, and they included it with their usual medical bills to be deducted on their schedule A.

Of course I made a note to them explaining they couldn't deduct expenses like these for a pet, but I didn't like doing it.  Over the years, I've encountered this over and over again- an individual or couple with no children tries to take a deduction for their pet(s) medical expenses or veterinary costs.  I, being childless and a pet-owner, myself, think this is fair, but am I just biased?  To many people, a pet is part of the family, and they, like children, sometimes get sick and need care.  If we manage to spend enough on their medical care to get over the 7.5% minimum of AGI, should their medical care count as a child's would?

Granted, I know it's not legal, I'm more curious about your opinions on the subject.

Thanks! :0)

abfabmom1 · Accepted Answer

I'm not entirely against tax breaks for pets.  I know that my pets are my family members, and they sometimes bring in big bills.

That said, I'm not sure why childless couples should be the only ones to get this credit.  If we're gonna do it, then let's do it for everyone.

dianes98 · Answer

Your argument makes it sound as if you should be able to claim pets if you don't have children. What if you have both? I do.  My dogs medical care and even food gets pretty costly, but it doesn't come near the cost of raising a child.  I would spend whatever it takes to make my pets well (2 dogs).  I think tax issues are mind boggling enough without trying to add pets and classes of pets and who knows what other types of rules the IRS is capable of coming up with.

Now if you are going to add them to your deductions; well that's just another way to commit tax fraud.  I'm sure people do all the time, even unwittingly.  The consequences are what they are in any case.  Even if no one thinks you did it on purpose - if you get caught you get to pay the taxes, penalties and interest.

razzyandmax · Answer

you can claim your dogs expenses if you are in the business of selling dogs. but you have to actually sell dogs. it can't be just a hobby

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Should childless individuals be allowed a tax break for their pets?

3 Answers