Can I use my HSA for teeth whitening?

Asked by: Gerardo Weimann  |  Last update: October 30, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (23 votes)

Because teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure, it is not considered an HSA-eligible expense.

What dental expenses are not HSA eligible?

For instance, cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening or veneers are generally not covered by HSAs or medical FSAs.

Can I use my HSA for teeth cleaning?

Your HSA also covers expenses for standard dental cleanings and dental check-ups. One thing to keep in mind is that some of these procedures may have a co-payment, so it's important that you check with your dental insurance provider to find out exactly what you'll have to pay out of pocket.

Can you use HSA for cosmetic dental?

Generally, it can be used for anything that is a necessary medical treatment. This means you can use your HSA for most medical, dental, and vision care expenses. However, cosmetic procedures do not usually make the cut, unless they are medically necessary or for restorative purposes.

Is teeth whitening a qualified medical expense?

However, purely cosmetic procedures, like teeth whitening, aren't deductible because they're not considered medically necessary. To claim a deduction for your dental expenses, you'll need to itemize your deductions on Form 1040, Schedule A.

HSA Money & Whitening Your Teeth!

27 related questions found

Will my HSA cover teeth whitening?

Because teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure, it is not considered an HSA-eligible expense. If you take out money to cover teeth whitening, you will have to pay taxes and a penalty. If you want to handle stains caused by fluoride or tetracycline, an option that is covered by HSA is a veneer.

What expenses are not covered by HSA?

Generally, you can't use your HSA to pay for expenses that don't meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease. Nutritional supplements and weight loss programs not prescribed by a physician are examples of expenses that would not be covered by your HSA.

Can I use HSA for gym membership?

Gym memberships. While some companies and private insurers may offer discounts on gym memberships, you generally can't use your FSA or HSA account to pay for gym or health club memberships. An exception to that rule would be if your doctor deems fitness medically necessary for your recovery or treatment.

Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?

Teeth whitening is typically not covered by dental insurance because it's considered a cosmetic procedure. That means it improves appearance instead of correcting an oral health issue. It is not generally considered a medically necessary procedure, like a root canal or filling.

Are tampons HSA eligible?

With the passage of the CARES Act in March 2020, tampons and other menstrual care products are now fully FSA-/HSA-eligible. According to the text of the bill, menstrual care products include, “tampon, pad, liner, cup, sponge, or similar product used by individuals with respect to menstruation…”

Can HSA be used for massage?

Your HSA can pay for massage therapy, though you'll likely need a letter of medical necessity (LMN) from your doctor. An LMN states what condition the treatment is for, how many sessions you need, and any other relevant details. An HSA may also be used on alternative or holistic treatments, such as: Massage therapy.

Can I buy teeth whitening with my FSA?

Because it's considered cosmetic in nature, teeth whitening will not be reimbursed with your FSA.

Can HSA be used for Invisalign?

Straighten Your Smile and Save: Yes, You Can Use Your FSA or HSA for Braces or Invisalign!

What if I accidentally used my HSA card for groceries?

If you catch the transaction early enough, you might even be able to contact the retailer and ask them to reverse the charge and fill it on a new card. If you bought something in person, you can also return it to the store and then buy it again with a different card.

Is deodorant HSA eligible?

Deodorant reimbursement is not eligible with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA) or a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).

Can I use HSA for glasses?

Yes! You can definitely use funds from your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to purchase prescription glasses. (FSAs and HSAs can be used for many other vision- and eye health-related expenses, too, but we'll discuss that more in a bit.)

How much is teeth whitening out of pocket?

Based on Delta Dental's cost estimator, in-office teeth bleaching in Culver City, California, can cost around $596 - $900.

Am I eligible for teeth whitening?

Your dentist will advise you whether whitening is right for you. It may be that teeth whitening isn't suitable, for example if you have gum disease or crowns.

Is teeth whitening a medical expense?

The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) specifically excludes various medical expenses spent on unnecessary cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, in IRS Publication 502. In most cases, you will need to pay for teeth whitening services out of pocket.

Can I use HSA to buy Apple Watch?

Why other fitness trackers don't qualify. Even though Fitbits and Apple Watches measure important health data, they currently do not qualify for HSA reimbursement, as they are considered for general health use and not intended to treat or manage a specific medical condition.

Can I use my HSA for vitamins?

In general, vitamins are not considered an HSA eligible expense unless they are prescribed by a doctor for a specific medical condition.

Can I use my HSA for Botox?

Can you use HSA funds to pay for Botox? If you're using Botox for cosmetic purposes like reducing wrinkles or fine lines, it's not considered an HSA-eligible expense. However, Botox may be HSA eligible if it's used to treat a medical condition like chronic migraines, severe muscle spasms, or overactive bladder.

Are massages HSA eligible?

Massage Therapy may be eligible for reimbursement with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) with flexible spending accounts (FSA), health savings accounts (HSA) and health reimbursement arrangements (HRA).

What is the 12 month rule for HSA?

It means you must remain eligible for the HSA until December 31 of the following year. The only exceptions are death or disability. If you violate the testing period requirement, your ineligible contributions become taxable income.

Can I use HSA for tummy tuck?

FSAs and HSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses, including elective procedures like abdominoplasty. Check the guidelines of your specific account to determine eligibility and any limitations.