Why doesn t FSA cover vitamins?

Asked by: Myron Vandervort V  |  Last update: October 18, 2023
Score: 4.6/5 (75 votes)

While one could make the argument that taking daily multivitamins can help ward off future health problems, they generally fall outside IRS regulations for FSA eligibility as they are products used to support one's "general health," and not used to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent a legitimate medical ...

Can I use FSA funds for vitamins?

Vitamins or nutritional supplements (herbal or natural medicines) will not qualify as FSA-eligible if used to maintain general good health. In narrow circumstances vitamins recommended by a medical practitioner to treat a medical condition may be eligible with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).

Why are vitamins not covered by HSA?

Prescriptions are not strictly required, but it's a good idea to get the recommendation in writing from the provider. Vitamins and supplements are not HSA-qualified if they are taken only to promote general well-being.

Are vitamins and probiotics FSA eligible?

How are probiotics eligible for reimbursement? If a medical professional recommends probiotic supplements as a means of treating a specific medical condition, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) is required to reimburse the amount under an FSA, HSA, or HRA.

What is a Letter of medical necessity for vitamins FSA?

A letter of medical necessity is a letter from your doctor or other medical practitioner explaining why an item or service is recommended to treat or mitigate a specific health condition. Essentially, it ensures that the FSA participant is purchasing the product for medical and not personal use.

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23 related questions found

How do I get my FSA supplements covered?

A doctor's certification is required and must state the supplement by name and the medical condition for which it is intended to treat. Your doctor may provide you with certification on letterhead from their office, or you may provide this Letter of Medical Necessity form for your doctor to complete.

Do vitamins count as medical expense?

A14: Yes, but only if the supplements are recommended by a medical practitioner as treatment for a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician. Otherwise, the cost of nutritional supplements is not a medical expense.

Are protein shakes FSA eligible?

Protein shakes are considered nutritional supplements, and unfortunately you cannot use your flexible spending account (FSA) towards these. We get many questions about FSA eligibility at FSAstore.com, as people often wonder why protein powder is not considered an FSA eligible expense.

Are toothbrushes FSA eligible?

Toothbrushes are not eligible for reimbursement with flexible spending accounts (FSA), health savings accounts (HSA), health reimbursement accounts (HRA), dependent care flexible spending accounts and limited-purpose flexible spending accounts (LPFSA) because they are general health products.

Is any food FSA eligible?

No, you can't use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) for straight food purchases like meat, produce and dairy. But you can use them for some nutrition-related products and services. To review, tax-advantaged accounts have regulatory restrictions on eligible products and services.

Is melatonin FSA eligible?

Melatonin: FSA Eligibility

Melatonin may be eligible with a Letter of Medical Necessity for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), or a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA).

Is hair loss treatment covered by FSA?

Expenses resulting from a separate medical condition that causes hair loss would qualify for HSA or FSA payment.

Can I buy a treadmill with my HSA?

A treadmill may be eligible for reimbursement with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA) and health reimbursement arrangement (HRA).

Are massages FSA eligible?

Did you know? Massage Therapy is eligible for reimbursement through most FSA's and HSA's. Some do require a Letter of Medical Necessity from your doctor, but this means you can potentially be reimbursed from your insurance for your massage from us! You just need a note from your primary care physician.

What can FSA not be used for?

Facts about Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

You can spend FSA funds to pay deductibles and copayments, but not for insurance premiums. You can spend FSA funds on prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter medicines with a doctor's prescription.

Is deodorant FSA 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).

Why is toothpaste not covered by FSA?

Toothpaste is considered to be a “general health” item by the IRS, and items that are used to maintain general good health do not qualify. (Dental Health Foundation).

Is Tylenol covered by FSA?

Acetaminophen, the primary ingredient found in Tylenol, is an eligible OTC item. Acetaminophen reimbursement is eligible with an FSA account, HSA or HRA. Acne Medicine such as Clean and Clear, Neutrogena, Proactiv, etc., is eligible.

Are tampons FSA eligible?

Feminine hygiene products: Pads, liners, and tampons all qualify as FSA-eligible expenses.

Are vaccines FSA eligible?

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

Does Target accept FSA cards?

Target stores

Third-party credit cards: Visa®, Mastercard®, Discover®/Novus®, American Express®, credit cards from foreign banks (JCB Japanese Credit Bureau), Diner's Club International, and FSA/HSA cards are redeemable for FSA/HSA eligible items.

Is Gatorade FSA eligible?

Rehydration solution reimbursement is not eligible with a limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA) or a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA). Rehydration sports drinks, such as Gatorade, and solution with dietary supplements other than electrolytes are not eligible.

Can I write off vitamins?

You typically can't deduct the cost of nonprescription drugs (except insulin) or other purchases for general health, such as toothpaste, health club dues, vitamins, diet food and nonprescription nicotine products. You also can't deduct medical expenses paid in a different year.

Are massages considered a medical expense?

As long as the massage was recommended or prescribed by a medical professional, massage therapy can be a qualified medical expense that is tax deductible. This is important to know since many people overlook the cost of massage therapy when considering their health costs and miss out on the benefits it can provide.

Do vitamins qualify for HSA?

Vitamins can help you stay healthy, but they are not deemed a qualified medical expense under IRS rules. If your doctor has prescribed a vitamin for you to treat a specific condition, it may be FSA or HSA eligible.