In Announcement 2011-14, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) “has concluded that breast pumps and supplies that assist lactation are medical care under § 213(d) of the Internal Revenue Code because, like obstetric care, they are for the purpose of affecting a structure or function of the body of the lactating woman.” Therefore, assuming all other requirements are met, these expenses qualify as deductible medical expenses.

Reimbursement Allowed Under Flexible Spending Arrangements

Since these amounts qualify as deductible medical expenses, reimbursements of “these expenses under flexible spending arrangements [FSAs], Archer medical savings accounts, health reimbursement arrangements, or health savings accounts are not income to the taxpayer.”

Publication 502 to Be Revised

The IRS will revise Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses, to include this information

Contact Vision Payroll for Further Information

Contact Vision Payroll if you have any questions on Announcement 2011-14.