FSA & HSA Eligibility Guide
Know what qualifies for tax-free health spending
What Are FSA & HSA Accounts?
FSA (Flexible Spending Account)
Employer-sponsored account. Use pre-tax dollars for medical expenses. "Use it or lose it" — funds typically expire at year-end (some plans allow a $610 rollover).
HSA (Health Savings Account)
Available with high-deductible health plans. Funds roll over indefinitely and can be invested. Triple tax advantage: deductible contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses.
CARES Act Update (2020+)
The CARES Act permanently expanded FSA/HSA eligibility to include most over-the-counter medications without a prescription, plus menstrual products. This means common drugs like ibuprofen, allergy pills, and heartburn meds now qualify.
Eligible Items
All prescription drugs
Any medication prescribed by a licensed physician
Insulin
Eligible even without a prescription
OTC pain relievers
Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin (CARES Act)
Allergy medications
Cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine (CARES Act)
Antacids & heartburn meds
Omeprazole, famotidine OTC (CARES Act)
Menstrual products
Tampons, pads, cups (CARES Act)
First aid supplies
Bandages, gauze, antiseptics
Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
Considered preventive care
Reading glasses
Including prescription glasses and contacts
Blood glucose monitors
Test strips and lancets included
Not Eligible
Vitamins & supplements
Unless prescribed to treat a specific condition
Cosmetics & personal care
Face wash, moisturizer, toothpaste (regular)
Gym memberships
Even if recommended by a doctor
Teeth whitening
Considered cosmetic, not medical
General wellness items
Essential oils, aromatherapy
Nutritional supplements
Protein powder, meal replacements
Quick Eligibility Checker
Common medications and their FSA/HSA eligibility status:
Eligibility may vary by plan administrator. When in doubt, check with your FSA/HSA provider or save your receipts and submit for reimbursement. A Letter of Medical Necessity from your doctor can make some otherwise-ineligible items (like vitamins) eligible.