Tax Deductions for Nurses
Nurses work hard and deserve every deduction available. From uniforms and medical equipment to continuing education credits, here's everything you can potentially write off.
Common Deductions for Nurses
Uniforms and Scrubs
Scrubs, lab coats, and other required uniforms that aren't suitable for everyday wear are deductible. This includes non-slip shoes required for hospital floors.
Stethoscopes and Medical Equipment
Personal medical equipment like stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, penlight, bandage scissors, and other tools you purchase for work.
Continuing Education
CEU courses, nursing conferences, seminars, and certifications required to maintain your license. Includes travel expenses for educational events.
Licensing and Certification Fees
State nursing license renewal fees, specialty certifications (CCRN, CEN, etc.), and professional organization dues like ANA membership.
Mileage Between Facilities
If you work at multiple facilities or travel between hospitals as a travel nurse, the mileage between locations is deductible at 70¢ per mile for 2025.
Professional Liability Insurance
Malpractice insurance premiums you pay out of pocket to protect your nursing license.
Medical Reference Materials
Nursing textbooks, drug guides, medical apps subscriptions, and reference materials you purchase for work.
Expenses to Track
W-2 Nurses vs. Independent Contractors
Most nurses are W-2 employees, which means unreimbursed employee expenses are no longer deductible on federal returns due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (2018-2025). However, many states still allow these deductions on state returns.
If you work as an independent contractor (1099), travel nurse through an agency, or have a side nursing business, you can deduct these expenses on Schedule C.
Documentation Tips for Nurses
The IRS requires clear documentation for all deductions. For nurses, this means:
- Uniforms: Keep receipts showing the item purchased was specifically for work (scrubs, not regular clothes)
- Equipment: Save receipts with item descriptions that show medical/professional use
- Education: Keep course completion certificates alongside payment receipts
- Mileage: Maintain a log with date, starting/ending locations, and business purpose
Travel Nursing Deductions
Travel nurses often qualify for additional deductions including:
- Housing stipends (may be tax-free if structured properly)
- Per diem allowances for meals and incidentals
- Travel expenses to and from assignments
- Duplicate housing costs if maintaining a tax home
These situations can be complex. We recommend consulting with a tax professional who specializes in travel healthcare workers.
Maximize Your Deductions Year-Round
The key to maximizing deductions is tracking expenses as they happen, not scrambling at tax time. Connect your accounts to Find Your Deductions and we'll automatically categorize your nursing-related expenses throughout the year.
Keep all receipts for uniform purchases, even if bought online. Screenshot order confirmations.
Track mileage between facilities using an app - even short trips between buildings add up.
Save documentation for all CEU courses including course certificates and payment receipts.
If you're a travel nurse, additional deductions for housing and per diem may apply - consult a tax professional.
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