What is the difference between FSA and limited purpose FSA?
Asked by: Prof. Kacey Kilback I | Last update: October 10, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (17 votes)
Can I use limited FSA for sunglasses?
In most cases, non-prescription sunglasses are not eligible for payment with FSA funds. However, reading sunglasses like our SunReaders® are FSA-eligible because they help correct presbyopia. Reading glasses (without tinted lenses) are also FSA-eligible for this reason.
Can my spouse use my limited FSA?
You can use funds in your FSA to pay for certain medical and dental expenses for you, your spouse if you're married, and your dependents. You can spend FSA funds to pay deductibles and copayments, but not for insurance premiums.
What is the IRS rule for limited purpose FSA?
The IRS created this rule, which states that all money left in your FSA is forfeited after the plan year ends, or if applicable, after the run-out period. If your limited-purpose FSA has a carryover feature, you may carry over up to $500 of unused funds into the next plan year.
What are the three types of FSA?
There are three types of FSA accounts: 1) Health Care FSA (HCFSA); 2) Limited Expense Health Care FSA (LEX HCFSA); and 3) Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA).
FSA vs. HSA: What is the Difference?
What is limited FSA vs FSA?
It's an account you elect to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for certain health care expenses. Unlike a general-purpose health FSA, however, funds in a limited-purpose health FSA can only be used to pay for qualifying dental, vision and orthodontia expenses.
What happens if I use my FSA incorrectly?
If the Benefits Card is accidentally or intentionally utilized for ineligible expenses, you are responsible for reimbursing your account. You will be notified if you have an ineligible expense and your Benefits Card may be deactivated until your account is reimbursed.
Why do I need a limited purpose FSA if I have an HSA?
To keep more of your HSA money, it might be a good idea to contribute the max to your HSA and then also contribute an additional $1,100 to an LPFSA. Then you can use your LPFSA to pay for those expected dental and vision expenses, while still saving the full annual maximum in your HSA.
Is electric toothbrush FSA eligible?
Unfortunately, most products for oral health care are not currently eligible medical expenses for FSA and HSA spending.
Can you use limited purpose FSA for Invisalign?
Invisalign orthodontics reimbursement is eligible with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA).
Can I use FSA 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.
Can I have two FSA accounts in one year?
You can use both accounts, as long as you do not submit the same expense to both accounts for reimbursement. Submit the claims to one or the other FSA account and if there is still an unreimbursed balance that amount can be submitted to the second FSA account.
Are diapers FSA eligible?
Regular diapers for newborns and infants are not FSA eligible because they do not treat a medical condition, but rather aid a healthy function of the body. There are some ways to save, however, including sales, coupons, buying in bulk or joining rewards programs.
Is an Apple Watch FSA eligible?
Likely not. While your Apple Watch, Garmin, or other tracker may offer you some insight—and maybe even some encouragement—to stay on top of your fitness routine, they are not typically considered medical devices for purposes of FSA and HSA funds.
How to spend limited purpose FSA money?
The LPFSA is used to pay for eligible vision and dental expenses that are not covered by your insurance. It can also be used to pay for eligible post-deductible medical expenses. Pre-tax contributions reduce your taxable income.
Is an HSA or FSA better?
Bottom line: Both HSAs and FSAs provide financial benefits for managing health care expenses. HSAs offer more flexibility and long-term growth potential, making them a valuable tool for future financial planning. Learn about HSA options from Aetna.
Is Tylenol FSA eligible?
Can I buy OTC medicine such as Tylenol and Tums with my FSA or HSA? Yes. You can buy OTC medicine such as Tylenol and Tums with your FSA or HSA.
Are tampons FSA eligible?
Feminine hygiene products: Pads, liners, and tampons all qualify as FSA-eligible expenses. The end of the year is a good chance to stock up if you need to. Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain medications such as Aleve, Tylenol, and generic versions of the drugs are available for purchase through FSA funds.
Is deodorant FSA eligible?
For example, daily care products, like Vaseline, toothpaste, and deodorant, are not FSA-eligible expenses. Gym memberships and health insurance premiums aren't eligible either. It's possible that you may accidentally purchase a nonqualifying expense with your FSA funds.
Is limited purpose FSA worth it?
Is a limited purpose FSA right for me? If your employer offers an LP-FSA, enrolling in one can be an excellent option if you're looking to reduce your dental and vision expenses while capitalizing on potential tax savings.
Can I use my FSA for dental and vision?
You can use your Limited Expense Health Care FSA (LEX HCFSA) funds to pay for a variety of dental and vision care products and services for you, your spouse, and your dependents.
Can both spouses have an FSA 2025?
For the 2025 plan year, contributions to an FSA are limited to $3,300 per person. Married couples can therefore contribute a combined $6,600 if they each have an FSA.
What is the biggest disadvantage of the FSAs?
While FSAs offer several benefits, they also have limitations. The 'use-it-or-lose-it' rule can lead to the loss of unspent funds. Additionally, there are restrictions regarding eligible expenses and contribution limits, which are determined by the IRS and can change annually.
Can you use FSA for glasses?
Can I use my FSA on all prescription eyewear? Yes, you can use it to buy prescription glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses all year round.
Is toilet paper FSA eligible?
Here are examples of items and expenses that are not FSA-eligible for 2024: General health items: toiletries like toothpaste, toilet paper, or shampoo, cosmetic products, vitamins and supplements (without a prescription) Non-medical equipment: car seats, strollers, non-medical exercise equipment.