Updates on weight-loss surgery expenses.(Legal Pulse)(Brief Article)

Taxpayers who itemize deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040 are now able to deduct expenses related to bariatric surgery--often referred to as "stomach stapling." The deduction is subject to the 7.5% threshold (taxpayers may deduct only the amount by which their total uncompensated medical care expenses for the year exceed 7.5% of their adjusted gross income). Because the IRS has recognized obesity as a disease, expenses related to weight-loss surgery, nutrition counseling, and approved weight-loss drugs are considered medical expenses. However, special diet foods and gym fees are not deductible. The IRS does not define obesity--typically defined as being 30 pounds or more over …