Are funeral expenses tax deductible? Can funeral expenses be claimed on taxes as a medical expense deduction for an immediate family member or dependent who has recently passed away?

No, never can funeral expenses be claimed on taxes as a deduction. The IRS deducts qualified medical expenses. Funeral expenses are not tax deductible because they are not qualified medical expenses. Qualified medical expenses include:

Deductible medical expenses may include, but are not limited to the following:

Doctor fees

Hospital fees

Medical equipment

Lab services

prescription medication

Medical supplies and equipment

Routine dental exams

Vision Care

Glasses and contacts

Polls, fees and parking associated with receiving medical treatment

To claim medical expenses on your tax return you must itemize your tax return. If you itemize, you will not be allowed to take the standard deduction. You will need to calculate both methods to determine which gives you a lower tax.

If your itemized deductions are greater than your standard deduction, then you should complete Form 1040, Schedule A. If the itemized deductions are less than your standard deduction, then your should take the standard deduction. For more information about itemizing medical expenses, visit: Topic 502: Medical and Dental Expenses.