Tax season is almost upon us – the deadline for filing is on April 15th, 2020.
Did you know you can claim an additional $1,000 exemption if you were considered legally blind on the last day of the tax year?
If you are married (or in a civil union) and are filing jointly and your spouse was considered legally blind on the last day of the tax year, they can claim an additional $1,000 exemption.
To claim these exemptions (for the first time), medical proof must be enclosed with your paper tax return. Documentation may be required at a later time if filing electronically.
What works as proof? A letter from your doctor stating that you are legally blind typically suffices. You can continue to claim the exemption in subsequent years without needing proof, if there is no drastic improvement in your ability to see.
Note that this exemption can not be claimed for a domestic partner or for your dependents.