New e-prescription rules change how Germans claim tax deductions
The switch to e-prescriptions has changed how pharmacy receipts work for tax purposes. Since early 2024, the old pink paper prescriptions have been replaced across Germany. This shift also means new rules for claiming medical expenses on tax returns. From this year, pharmacy receipts must include more details to be valid for tax deductions. For the 2025 tax year, they need the taxpayer's full name, the medication name, the type of prescription, and the co-payment amount. Missing any of these could cause problems when submitting expenses.
Patients can now use their health insurance card directly at the pharmacy terminal. This ensures their name appears on the receipt automatically. If a receipt is missing the name, pharmacies can issue a corrected version upon request. The tax office still allows deductions for medical costs, but only after a personal contribution is subtracted. This ranges from one to seven percent of total income, depending on individual circumstances. Not all expenses qualify—only those linked to a specific illness and not covered by insurance. The deadline for the 2025 tax return is July 31, 2026. Those using a tax advisor have until February 28, 2027 to file.
The move to e-prescriptions has simplified some processes but added new requirements for tax claims. Patients must now check their receipts carefully to ensure all necessary details are included. Without the correct information, medical expenses may not be deductible.
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