taxmap/pub17/p17-108.htm#en_us_publink100033879You can deduct only the amount of your medical and dental expenses that is more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (Form 1040, line 38).
In this chapter, the term "7.5% limit" is used to refer to 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. The phrase "subject to the 7.5% limit" is also used. This phrase means that you must subtract 7.5% (.075) of your adjusted gross income from your medical expenses to figure your medical expense deduction.
taxmap/pub17/p17-108.htm#en_us_publink100033880Your adjusted gross income is $40,000, 7.5% of which is $3,000. You paid medical expenses of $2,500. You cannot deduct any of your medical expenses because they are not more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.