Can Medical Expenses Be Claimed Under Section 80D?
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The premiums paid towards health insurance policies for senior citizens (those ageing 60 years and above) are usually on the higher side due to several factors including age and increased affinity for health issues. At the same time, insurers may also be reluctant to provide health insurance coverage to ageing individuals and those who have any pre-existing ailments.
In 2018, the Union Budget brought some relief for senior citizens under Section 80D, who incur significant medical expenses but are unable to purchase health insurance. Possible reasons for this may include any pre-existing health conditions or an inability to afford the high premiums.
Under the Budget 2018, Section 80D was amended to allow a tax deduction for medical expenditure for senior citizens.
This deduction can be either claimed by the individual (senior citizen) themselves or by their children on the medical bills.
To claim deduction on medical bills, the medical expenses must be incurred on the family members who are aged 60 years and above. Also, the individual for whom medical expenditure has been incurred, and subsequently deduction under Section 80D, must not be covered under any health insurance plan.