CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Federal taxes were due on April 15, but some pet owners wonder if they could get a tax deduction for their furry friends.
A viral Instagram post claims you can, saying there are ways to get money back for caring for your pets throughout the year.
THE QUESTION
Can the average pet owner qualify for tax deductions on their pets?
THE ANSWER
No, the average pet owner won't qualify for tax deductions on their pets. However, there are some exceptions.
OUR SOURCES
WHAT WE FOUND
According to APPA, Americans spent $109 billion on pets, pet services and pet products in 2023. However, that doesn't mean you can claim them on your taxes and deduct those costs.
Steber said the average person isn't eligible for that kind of deduction. So no matter how much dog food, cat litter or vet bills you accumulate, there isn't much you can do come tax time.
However, there are some exceptions. Owners of service animals may be eligible for a tax write-off because their pet provides a medical service, according to TurboTax. Any medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, or AGI, are eligible.
Steber said self-employed individuals who have guard dogs or use cats to keep mice away may also be eligible for a deduction on some of the costs associated with caring for them.
Performance animals can also qualify for a deduction, according to TurboTax. This includes pets that work on movie sets, pet influencers on social media or competing in events that offer a cash prize.
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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