Can I use my HSA to buy over-the-counter medication?

Asked by: Prof. Laverna White DVM  |  Last update: January 27, 2026
Score: 4.1/5 (42 votes)

Thanks to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, you can use your FSA or HSA funds to buy OTC medications. Those types of medications include: Cold, cough, and flu medicine. Heartburn medications.

Can I buy cold medicine with HSA?

Earlier this year, the CARES Act was passed, which made over-the-counter medication HSA-eligible medical expenses. These include things like pain relievers, fever reducers, cough meds, antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, nasal rinses, humidifiers, and more.

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.

Are over-the-counter supplements HSA-eligible?

Most vitamins and supplements are not eligible with an FSA or HSA because the IRS considers them for general good health.

Is Advil HSA-eligible?

Yes, you can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) to purchase over-the-counter drugs without a prescription from your physician. Use your HSA for all Advil products.

DWYM: Last two days to buy over the counter meds with HSA

17 related questions found

Can I buy Tylenol with HSA?

Antacids such as Tums or Prilosec are eligible OTC items when accompanied by a prescription from a doctor. Analgesics (e.g. Advil, Aspirin, Tylenol) are eligible with a prescription from a doctor.

Can I buy Claritin with my HSA?

The short answer: yes! Because of recent legislation, you can use your HSA or FSA account to purchase over-the-counter medicines without a prescription.

Can I buy toothpaste with HSA?

Toothpaste is not eligible for reimbursement 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).

Is vitamin D supplement HSA eligible?

If vitamins are used for general health, they do not meet the IRS criteria for qualified medical expenses. Vitamins can serve a dual purpose: fill nutritional gaps and treat medical conditions. If you use vitamins to treat a specific medical condition, they become an eligible qualified medical expense.

Can I buy protein shakes with my HSA card?

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.

What are the most common mistakes for HSA?

Common HSA mistakes and how to avoid them
  • Using an HSA when you're not eligible. ...
  • Paying for ineligible expenses. ...
  • Contributing too much to your account. ...
  • Paying someone else's medical bills. ...
  • Using all of your funds. ...
  • Using both an HSA and FSA. ...
  • Stay ahead of mistakes with HSA Store.

How does HSA know what you buy?

Because HSA administrators don't track the purchases employees make with their HSA, employees should make it a habit to save receipts for all HSA-eligible goods and services, so they can easily reimburse themselves when they are ready, or when they need the money.

Can I use my HSA for gym membership?

Generally, the IRS doesn't allow pretax dollars in HSAs or FSAs for gym memberships. This is because they see them as expenses for general well-being rather than medical necessity. However, with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN), your HSA or FSA could be used to fund those expenses.

Is the Apple Watch HSA-eligible?

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 buy shampoo with HSA?

Over-the-counter toiletries or personal hygiene items which may include, but are not limited to shampoo, toothpaste, conditioners, hand creams, deodorant, shaving cream, razors, dental floss, body powders, hair gels/sprays, make-up, nail polish accessories, soap, mouthwash, etc., are not reimbursable.

Can I buy bandaids with HSA?

Bandages: HSA Eligibility. Bandages are over-the-counter (OTC) items that are eligible for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA) or a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA).

Can you buy tampons with HSA?

Yes! Thanks to the CARES Act, tampons are now considered a “medical expense.” That means you can use pre-tax income to pay for them through your HSA. More questions about tampons? Learn the truth behind some of the most common tampon myths.

Can you use HSA 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 probiotics with HSA?

Example 2: Probiotics.

Probiotic supplements taken for general gut health: Not HSA qualified. Probiotic supplements that are recommended to you by a gastroenterologist or health coach to treat a direct condition: HSA qualified.

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.)

Is toilet paper HSA eligible?

Toiletries used for everyday personal use aren't FSA and HSA eligible items. Items like shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, cosmetics and toilet paper are considered personal hygiene products, not medical aids.

Can I withdraw cash from my HSA debit card?

Health Benefits Debit Card – Your HSA Bank Health Benefits Debit Card provides access to your HSA funds at point-of-sale with signature or PIN and at ATMs for withdrawals.

Can I buy moisturizer with my HSA?

Can you use HSA for skin care? Yes, you can use a health saving account (HSA) for skin care, but there are some important factors to consider.

What over-the-counter medicine is HSA-eligible?

Those types of medications include:
  • Cold, cough, and flu medicine.
  • Heartburn medications.
  • Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Allergy and sinus medicine.
  • Digestive aids and laxatives.
  • Baby rash ointments and creams.
  • Baby electrolytes.
  • Sleep aids.

What can I not buy with HSA?

For example, nutritional supplements that aren't prescribed by your doctor aren't covered. Health club memberships and lactose intolerance medications typically aren't covered either. Here are some examples of non-qualified HSA expenses: Babysitting or child care (a dependent care FSA can help with child care)