How to spend leftover FSA?


Editorial team Published on

To use leftover Flexible Spending Account (FSA) money before your deadline, you can schedule overdue medical appointments, buy prescription eyewear, or stock up on eligible over-the-counter health products.

Check Your Plan Rules

  • Use-it-or-lose-it: Most FSA funds expire at the end of the plan year or calendar year.
  • Grace period: Some employers offer an extra 2.5 months to spend remaining balances.
  • Carryover: Some plans allow you to roll over a set limit (up to $680) into the next year.
  • Forfeitures: Unused and unextended money goes back to your employer, according to guidelines from GRF CPAs & Advisors.

Book Health Appointments

  • Dental care: Pay for routine cleanings, fillings, x-rays, or orthodontic work.
  • Vision exams: Schedule a yearly eye exam.
  • Specialized care: Visit a chiropractor, acupuncturist, or physical therapist.

Upgrade Vision and Hearing

  • Eyewear: Buy new prescription glasses, contact lenses, contact solution, or prescription sunglasses.
  • Hearing care: Purchase hearing aids, maintenance repairs, or batteries.

Stock Up on Everyday Essentials

  • First aid: Buy bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and first-aid kits.
  • Over-the-counter medicine: Purchase pain relievers, allergy medications, and cold drops.
  • Personal care: Stock up on sunscreen (SPF 15+) and menstrual care products.

Purchase Home Medical Devices

  • Monitoring tools: Get digital blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, or thermometers.
  • Pain management: Buy heating pads, ice packs, or TENS therapy devices.