16 great ways to spend your healthcare FSA

What is a healthcare FSA?

A healthcare Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is an employer-sponsored benefit that allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to pay for eligible healthcare expenses. This means you can save money on taxes while covering costs like doctor visits, prescription medications, dental care, and more.

Unlike a Health Savings Account (HSA), FSA funds are generally use-it-or-lose-it — meaning you need to spend your balance before the plan year ends or you may forfeit unused funds. Some employers offer a grace period or allow you to carry over a limited amount, but it's important to plan your spending carefully.

Getting Reimbursed: What You Need

To get reimbursed for FSA-eligible expenses, you'll typically need to submit a claim with documentation such as an itemized receipt or an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance provider. Many FSA administrators, including HealthEquity, offer mobile apps and online portals to make the process quick and easy.

If you have a HealthEquity benefits debit card, many eligible purchases are automatically verified at the point of sale, so you may not need to submit additional documentation.

FSA spending guide: 16 eligible expenses

1. Doctor visits

Copays, coinsurance, and deductibles for visits to your primary care physician or specialists are all FSA-eligible. This includes annual physicals, sick visits, and preventive care appointments.

2. Telehealth visits

Virtual doctor visits and telehealth consultations are FSA-eligible expenses. Whether you're connecting with a provider for a routine check-up or urgent care, you can use your FSA funds to cover the cost.

3. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

Thanks to the CARES Act, over-the-counter medications are FSA-eligible without a prescription. This includes pain relievers, allergy medications, cold and flu remedies, and digestive aids.

4. Dental care

Dental cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, and orthodontia are all eligible expenses. You can use your FSA to cover out-of-pocket costs not paid by your dental insurance.

5. Vision care

Eye exams, prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and even prescription sunglasses are FSA-eligible. LASIK and other corrective eye surgeries also qualify.

6. Diabetes management

Blood glucose monitors, test strips, insulin, and other diabetes management supplies are eligible FSA expenses. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are also covered.

7. Weight loss management

Weight loss programs prescribed by a physician for a specific medical condition (such as obesity or hypertension) may be FSA-eligible. This can include GLP-1 medications and medically supervised programs.

8. Fitness trackers

Certain fitness trackers and health monitoring devices may qualify as FSA-eligible when prescribed by a doctor. Devices like the Oura Ring can be purchased through the HealthEquity marketplace.

9. Women's health products

Menstrual care products (pads, tampons, cups, liners) are FSA-eligible without a prescription. Additionally, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and other women's health treatments may also qualify.

10. Fertility treatment

Fertility treatments including IVF, fertility medications, and related procedures are FSA-eligible expenses. Pregnancy tests and ovulation kits also qualify.

11. Baby and nursing gear

Breast pumps, nursing supplies, and baby health essentials like nasal aspirators and thermometers are covered by your FSA. Prenatal vitamins are also eligible.

12. Vasectomy

Vasectomies and other family planning procedures are FSA-eligible medical expenses.

13. Hearing aids

Hearing aids, hearing aid batteries, and hearing tests are all eligible FSA expenses. Over-the-counter hearing aids also qualify.

14. Smoking cessation

Programs and products designed to help you quit smoking are FSA-eligible. This includes nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and prescription medications.

15. First-aid supplies

Bandages, antiseptic wipes, first-aid kits, thermometers, and other first-aid supplies are all FSA-eligible. Stock up before your deadline approaches.

16. Sunscreen

Sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher is an FSA-eligible expense. This is a great way to use remaining funds before your deadline.

For a complete list of eligible items, check out our FSA Qualified Medical Expenses tool, or read HSA vs FSA: Which account is right for me?

Need more help? Visit the Help Center for FSA support. You can also shop for eligible products at the FSA Store or on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions