Is IVF Tax Deductible? What You Need To Know

It’s no secret that kids are expensive. From providing for their basic needs to the exorbitant cost of childcare, they tend to soak up monetary resources quicker than expected. But for many, these expenses start even before baby arrives. This is particularly true for those utilizing Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) like IUI and IVF in the hopes of building their dream families.

The financial burden of fertility treatments can feel overwhelming, but there’s some good news: Certain fertility and pregnancy-related expenses are actually tax deductible. That means you may be able to recoup some of the money spent on your journey to parenthood by lowering the amount of taxable income reported to the IRS.

IVF tax write-offs: What you need to know

So, what exactly does it mean to write off fertility treatments like IVF? A tax deduction, or write-off, is an amount that you can subtract from your taxable income, which in turn reduces the amount of taxes you owe. Think of it as a way to show the IRS, “Look, I’ve already spent this amount of money on qualified medical expenses, so I don’t need to pay taxes on it.”

For fertility treatments like IVF, the IRS classifies these as medical expenses, and as long as they exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI), you may be able to deduct them. For example, if your AGI is $70,000, then 7.5% of that is $5,250. Any qualified medical expenses exceeding that threshold can be written off. Considering that a single IVF cycle can cost upwards of $20,000, this deduction could provide significant tax relief. 

Are fertility treatments tax deductible?

Yes! Many fertility treatments fall under the IRS’s definition of tax-deductible medical expenses, including:

• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

• In vitro fertilization (IVF), including egg retrieval and embryo transfer

• Egg, sperm, and embryo storage (if used for immediate treatment)

• Fertility medications, including hormone treatments and injectable drugs

• Genetic testing related to IVF

• Lab fees and diagnostic tests

• Surgery or other procedures to treat infertility (such as hysteroscopy or laparoscopy)

While these expenses are generally deductible, it’s always wise to confirm the latest IRS guidelines or consult with a tax professional, as deductions can change from year to year.

Are IVF-related expenses (like supplements) tax deductible?

Aside from the direct medical costs of IVF, there are additional expenses that might be deductible. These include:

• Acupuncture – Often used as a complementary treatment to improve fertility outcomes.

• Therapy and counseling – If related to fertility struggles and prescribed by a healthcare professional.

• Prenatal vitamins and fertility supplements – These may be deductible if they are medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor.

• Health insurance premiums – If you pay out-of-pocket for insurance that covers your fertility treatments, these premiums might also be deductible.

• Travel expenses – If you need to travel for fertility treatments, transportation costs, lodging (up to $50 per night), and even mileage may be deductible.

To ensure you’re maximizing deductions, keep all receipts, doctor’s recommendations, and any related documentation.

How much do you get back in taxes for IVF?

The amount you can get back in taxes for IVF depends on your total medical expenses and tax situation. Since medical expenses are deductible only if they exceed 7.5% of your AGI, the higher your medical costs relative to your income, the more you may be able to deduct. Here’s an example:

• AGI: $70,000

• 7.5% of AGI: $5,250

• IVF & related expenses: $20,000

• Deductible amount: $14,750 (the portion exceeding $5,250)

While this deduction won’t provide a dollar-for-dollar refund, it does reduce your taxable income, which in turn lowers the amount of taxes you owe. Depending on your tax bracket, this could result in substantial savings.

How to deduct IVF from your taxes

To claim medical expense write-offs, you’ll need to itemize your deductions instead of taking the standard deduction. Here’s how:

1. Keep detailed records – Save all receipts, invoices, and statements related to fertility treatments, medications, and related expenses.

2. Complete IRS Form 1040 – Use Schedule A to itemize medical expenses and calculate your deductions.

3. Consult the IRS Medical and Dental Expenses Guide – This resource provides detailed information on what qualifies for deductions.

4. Consider working with a tax professional – If you’re unsure about the process, a CPA or tax advisor can help ensure you’re maximizing your deductions while staying compliant with IRS regulations.

Why writing off IVF on your taxes matters

Fertility treatments are not only emotionally and physically taxing, but they can also take a significant financial toll. Finding ways to alleviate even a portion of this burden can make a big difference. Writing off IVF expenses is one way to reclaim some control over the financial aspect of your fertility journey.

In a time when so much feels uncertain, financial planning tools like tax deductions, fertility financing options, and community support from places like Rescripted can provide much-needed relief. Understanding your options empowers you to navigate your journey with greater confidence. So, gather those receipts, crunch the numbers, and take advantage of the financial resources available to you — you deserve it!

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Brighid Flynn is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia where she lives with her husband and puppy. She is just beginning her journey toward motherhood.