Are Blue Light Glasses FSA Eligible?
Uncover the criteria for using your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to cover blue light glasses and how to claim reimbursement.
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is a valuable benefit allowing individuals to set aside pre-tax money for eligible healthcare expenses. This reduces taxable income, offering a financial advantage for managing health costs. Blue light glasses, designed to filter high-energy visible light from digital screens, are popular for reducing digital eye strain and improving comfort during extended screen use. Many wonder if these glasses, which aim to reduce issues like headaches and blurred vision from screen time, qualify for FSA funds.
Understanding FSA-Eligible Expenses
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sets guidelines for FSA-eligible expenses. According to IRS Publication 502, medical care expenses are defined as amounts paid primarily for the “diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body.” This definition is central to determining eligibility for health-related purchases. Expenses for general health or well-being are not eligible unless they address a specific medical condition or are prescribed by a healthcare professional.
To qualify, an expense must relate to a medical purpose, not just personal convenience or comfort. While common medical expenses like doctor visits, prescription drugs, and traditional eyeglasses are eligible, other items may require additional documentation. The IRS ensures tax-advantaged funds are used for legitimate medical needs. Medical necessity is often required for items considered general health products.
Eligibility of Blue Light Glasses
Blue light glasses can be FSA eligible, but eligibility depends on specific conditions. They are primarily eligible if prescribed by a doctor to treat a diagnosed medical condition. Over-the-counter blue light glasses for general comfort or prevention, without a diagnosis, usually do not qualify. Eligibility hinges on a healthcare professional determining medical necessity to alleviate or prevent a diagnosed eye condition, such as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome.
A prescription from an eye care professional is typically a fundamental requirement for medical necessity. If glasses are non-prescription or medical need is not apparent, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) may be required. An LMN is a doctor’s document detailing the diagnosed condition, explaining why blue light glasses are part of treatment and how they alleviate symptoms. This documentation helps the FSA administrator verify the expense meets IRS guidelines.
Claiming Reimbursement for Blue Light Glasses
Once eligibility is established via prescription or a Letter of Medical Necessity, individuals can claim FSA reimbursement. Two main methods exist for using FSA funds. Many FSA plans provide a debit card, usable directly at participating retailers. This offers immediate payment and convenience, but retain all documentation.
Alternatively, if an FSA debit card is not accepted, individuals can pay out-of-pocket and submit a claim. This process typically requires submitting specific documentation to the FSA plan administrator. Essential documents include an itemized receipt for the glasses and the eye care professional’s prescription. If an LMN was required, a copy must be included. Claims are usually submitted through the plan administrator’s online portal or by mail, with reimbursement processed within days or weeks.