You can now purchase your breast pump and breast pumping supplies with pre-tax dollars through you flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts. A huge victory for pumping moms! If you don't have a FSA or HSA account you may deduct the expenses from your taxes if they equate to 7.5% or more of your adjusted gross income starting with your 2010 taxes. A wonderful savings, since on average a pumping mom spends $500-$1,000 on pumping supplies within the first year.
This battle has been ongoing with the IRS who last year said breast pumps and supplies were not qualified medical expenses. While the IRS isn't stating any reason beyond...
"After reviewing this matter, we have concluded that breast pumps and supplies that assist lactation are medical care under section 213(d) of the Internal Revenue Code (the Code) because they are for the purpose of affecting a structure or function of the body of the lactating woman."
... we can read between the lines. Recent studies and a press release from the surgeon general in January are all strongly showing the importance and cost savings giving a baby breast milk till at least 6 months can have. A 2010 Harvard study places the cost savings at $13 billion in lost wages and medical costs if 90% of women breastfed till 6 months - wow!
So what's all included in breast pumps and "breast pump supplies?" Great question! I'm continuing to dig and find out - anyone who pumps a significant amount knows hands free bras should be medically necessary! :-) Below is a list of breast pump supplies I've heard to be included so far... I encourage you to call and check with your health insurance company for more details!
Included Breast Pump Supplies
This battle has been ongoing with the IRS who last year said breast pumps and supplies were not qualified medical expenses. While the IRS isn't stating any reason beyond...
"After reviewing this matter, we have concluded that breast pumps and supplies that assist lactation are medical care under section 213(d) of the Internal Revenue Code (the Code) because they are for the purpose of affecting a structure or function of the body of the lactating woman."
... we can read between the lines. Recent studies and a press release from the surgeon general in January are all strongly showing the importance and cost savings giving a baby breast milk till at least 6 months can have. A 2010 Harvard study places the cost savings at $13 billion in lost wages and medical costs if 90% of women breastfed till 6 months - wow!
So what's all included in breast pumps and "breast pump supplies?" Great question! I'm continuing to dig and find out - anyone who pumps a significant amount knows hands free bras should be medically necessary! :-) Below is a list of breast pump supplies I've heard to be included so far... I encourage you to call and check with your health insurance company for more details!
Included Breast Pump Supplies
- Breast pump
- Breast pump tubing
- Breast Shields
- Breast milk bags
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