Mental Health Provider deductions

[Possi]

I have a new client, a Mental Health Dr. with an unusual question.

Many health care providers suffer with mental health issues simply because of their work.

Mental health maintenance often become an expense due to their work.

Even though these expenses are deductible on the Sch A and most often lost due to the floor, could these expenses legitimately be taken on the Sch C?

I'm stretching again, I know, but entertain me...

[Burke]

Depends on what you mean by "mental health maintenance." Trips to the spa? I like that one. If it is a session with a mental health specialist, for instance, I do not think it can be classified as a bus expense. It is medical. We thrashed this around in another thread. If it were within the context of a trade conference, however, it might fly along with the other meeting-seminars, etc. done as a group.

[Possi]

I agree

I am in full agreement with you. Medical but not direct business expense. Thanks!

The only reason I put it up was because this mental health professional has PTSD and struggles to keep it together. It stands to reason that a mental health professional holds much more in than, say, I do. They hear it all. I only hear what the bartender might hear.

I equate it to police needing to stay in shape and deduct the gym membership. That doesn't happen in my office, either. We all need to stay in shape.

Apparently, this mental health professional has heard chatter from colleagues and asked about it. I think they are taking wardrobe, too, and I never take streetwear, ever.

Oh well, nothing ventured, nothing gained, right?

[Burke]

It is quite common, and very easy -- since one has a vested interest -- to justify certain expenses that one feels are perhaps unique to their profession, or critcal to the performance of their job. But when you step back and look at it, they really fall into other categories. Sometimes it is a fine line and a tough call. In the case of your client, I would venture to propose she/he find another line of work.