Italian Health Card at the Pharmacy
Why do pharmacists sometimes ask if you want to use your health card when buying medications? Let’s explain!
Is there a minimum spending requirement?
When purchasing medications and medical devices, you can provide your tax code to deduct part of the expense from your taxes at the end of the year. To be eligible for this deduction, your total annual spending must exceed €129.11. Expenses exceeding €129.11 can be deducted at a rate of 19% from your taxes.
Example
If your total spending on medications in one year is €1129.11: €1129.11 – €129.11 = €1000 From the €1000, you can deduct 19%, meaning €190 will be deducted from your taxes.
Who can claim the deduction?
- Employees and retirees will see the deducted amount refunded in a subsequent paycheck
- Self-employed individuals under the ordinary tax regime will pay reduced taxes equal to the deducted amount
How do I claim the deduction?
When purchasing medicine or medical devices at the pharmacy, ask the pharmacist to scan your health card. Unlike private medical services, payment can be made either in cash or by card. Your expenses will be automatically sent to the Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate). However, we recommend keeping your receipts for 10 years in case of an audit by the Revenue Agency.
Are children's medical expenses deductible?
Expenses are deductible for children under 24 years old who earn less than €4,000 annually, or for children over 24 who earn less than €2,840.51 per year.
Important Note
Remember to ask the pharmacist to register your health card before the transaction, as they are not required to remind you. Once the receipt has been printed, it will not be possible to add the health card information.
If you have any questions, please consult your tax advisor or trusted professional.
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