When you support a cause you care about—whether it’s disaster relief abroad, an overseas animal rescue, or a global education nonprofit—it’s natural to assume your generosity will also help at tax time.

When it comes to lowering your taxable income, medical expense deductions can be a valuable tool—but only if you understand what qualifies. Many taxpayers miss out simply because they don’t realize which costs can be deducted or how to claim them properly. To deduct medical expenses, you must itemize your deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040). You can only deduct the portion of your unreimbursed medical expenses that exceeds 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). For exampl