tax advice needed

[Suzie]

Has anyone here tried to claim transitioning costs as a tax deduction?  What were you able to deduct?

Thanks,
Suzie

[mickiejr1815]

i haven't but i'd like to know how if it's possible too. i mean some people get huge tax breaks for adopting kids, this costs about the same if not more.

[lisagurl]

Before Bush it was not a problem. IRS issued an opinion and has been challenged in Boston, no out come yet. Medical expenses that are necessary are deductible.

[Marlene]

I had FFS before the IRS's O'Donnabhain decision that was announced in Jan '06.  So I went ahead and claimed ALL my expenses.  So far, so good.

Getting back to the O'Donnabhain case proper....   The case was heard before Tax Court during the summer and the judge is currently writing up his decision.  A decision is expected soon, hopefully before April 15th so I can deduct my SRS!  Anywho, from the little inside information I have about the case, I would be shocked if the decision went against us.

Posted on: December 24, 2007, 07:41:11 PMAnd Lisagurl is correct: Before Bush things were fine.  One of his political appointees was responsible for the decision released in Jan '06.  Before that time the IRS was customarily allowing the deduction.  I believe the decision was the Bush administration throwing the Religious Right a bone.  Also of note was the infamous Dr Paul McHugh was an advisor to the president at the time.  If you don't know who he is there is plenty on him at Lynn Conway's site.

[Suzie]

I had FFS before the IRS's O'Donnabhain decision that was announced in Jan '06.  So I went ahead and claimed ALL my expenses.  So far, so good.

Getting back to the O'Donnabhain case proper....   The case was heard before Tax Court during the summer and the judge is currently writing up his decision.  A decision is expected soon, hopefully before April 15th so I can deduct my SRS!  Anywho, from the little inside information I have about the case, I would be shocked if the decision went against us.

Posted on: December 24, 2007, 07:41:11 PMAnd Lisagurl is correct: Before Bush things were fine.  One of his political appointees was responsible for the decision released in Jan '06.  Before that time the IRS was customarily allowing the deduction.  I believe the decision was the Bush administration throwing the Religious Right a bone.  Also of note was the infamous Dr Paul McHugh was an advisor to the president at the time.  If you don't know who he is there is plenty on him at Lynn Conway's site.

Thanks for the info, that is helpful!

So, FFS was good to deduct before Bush, but we aren't sure now? 

How about electrolysis, laser, psychotherapy and medications; can they be deducted (as of today) as valid medical expenses?  Or is that in tax court as well?

Thanks,
Suzie

[Wing Walker]

Hi, Suzie,

My health insurance paid half of my psychiatry and therapy bills and for almost all of my meds.  I know nothing of deductions for surgery --- yet.

IMHO, find a tax accountant, if you don't already have one, and get her/his advice.  If the Tax Court decision is a bit slow you might be able to re-file your 2007 return and it would be good to have a tax accountant walk you through that.

I hope that this helps.

Merry Christmas!

Wing Walker

[LostInTime]

Actually the IRS had denied transition and surgery costs before Bush took office. However, it usually went away quietly. I know of one or two who had to appeal the denial and made out okay. Another could not afford an attorney and therefore did not challenge.

It is still a random chance today and the case that is pending could help or hinder us in the long run. Here's hoping that it helps.

[Marlene]

I deducted it all!  FFS, electro, therapy, HRT.  About $45,000 that calender year.  In my mind it's all part of the treatment for a diagnosed condition (birth condition that is).  That's part of what the O'Donnabhain case is about: That the IRS can't decide what is medically necessary, only medical professionals, like our therapists, can make that determination.  As a result I expect the IRS to get smacked down because they aren't doctors.  How can the court go against the advice/diagnosis of therapists,doctors and gender experts from all over the world (the Standards of Care).  As I said I'd be shocked if the court rules against us.

Posted on: December 24, 2007, 09:53:02 PM

It is still a random chance today and the case that is pending could help or hinder us in the long run. Here's hoping that it helps.

I can't go into details, but people that were at the trial paint a very positive picture.  The government was ill unprepared and basically didn't have a case.  Our side was VERY prepared and made the government look bad.  And there is more, but I can't talk about that.... yet.