Tax relief can offset these costs by allowing you to lower your tax burden so that you pay less income tax. Can You Deduct Medical Expenses? Yes, you can claim medical expenses on taxes. The IRS permits you to deduct the portion of your medical expenses that exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income. The threshold is 7.5 percent if you or your spouse is 65 or older. How to Calculate Your Tax Deduction for Medical Expenses