Most of us recall this famous quote by Benjamin Franklin, “…nothing is certain but death and taxes.” Those of us who are a bit “leaky”, or who care for someone who leaks a little, also live with the certainty of incontinence expenses. No matter where you buy them, fancy pants (adult diapers) ain’t cheap.

The Internal Revenue Service provides Pub 502 in order to precisely explain which medical expenses are deductible and which medical costs will need to be borne by the taxpayer without the benefit of a tax deduction. This paper is a light read and a degree in tax law is not required in order to understand the contents.

Here is where you can pick up this handy IRS publication: http://www.irs.gov/publications/p502/ar02.html#en_US_publink100014757

Even if the products are non-prescription, used-in-the-home items that can be purchased in any store, if those products are purchased because you are caring for a recognized medical problem (incontinence), then you can deduct the cost of those products as legitimate medical expenses. This includes adult diapers, disposable washcloths, skin creams, underpads, and all the other accessories that go with absorbent underwear and the need to frequently change disposable adult diapers. This is really great news for all of us aging baby boomers; I am certain that I’ll soon be looking after someone who’ll need this type of care. Beyond that horizon, I can also sense that with there being just one little muscle keeping me dry down there; it is easy to imagine my own need for this deduction someday.

My spouse however is outraged that such deductions should be allowed. He’s a good guy, but sometimes we see things from different points of view. He feels that he should be allowed to deduct the cost of his own “normal” underwear, especially if others are allowed to deduct their “disposables”. He points out that it would be a public health hazard if he were to walk around without wearing his underwear. I conceded that point, even as I begged him to forgo his oath to “…never wear underwear again until Congress acts on this issue.” We’ve been married for quite a few years now and I know when to pay attention to him. As I do his laundry I would like him to continue to wear underwear. Please.

Hooray for him. But despite my husbands objections, I think the intent of this government rule is clear and well-meant.

So start looking online and find the best deals on adult diapers. Save your sales slips too; they will be worth some gold at tax time.