Are Breast Pumps and Related Supplies FSA Eligible?

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is an employer-sponsored benefit that allows individuals to set aside pre-tax money for eligible healthcare expenses. This arrangement reduces an individual’s taxable income, effectively lowering out-of-pocket medical costs. Funds contributed to an FSA must generally be used within the plan year, adhering to a “use-it-or-lose-it” rule, although some plans may offer a grace period or a limited rollover amount to the next year.

Eligibility of Breast Pumps and Related Supplies

Breast pumps and various related supplies are generally eligible expenses for reimbursement through a Flexible Spending Account. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines eligible medical care expenses as amounts paid for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body. In 2011, the IRS specifically ruled that breast pumps and lactation supplies qualify as medical care because they relate to a structure or function of a lactating woman’s body. This classification means individuals can use their pre-tax FSA dollars to purchase these items.

Both manual and electric breast pumps are covered under FSA guidelines. This broad eligibility extends to a range of accessories and supplies that support lactation and milk expression. Eligible items commonly include breast pump parts such as flanges, tubing, and valves, which are necessary for the pump’s proper function and hygiene. Additionally, breast milk storage bags and containers designed specifically for milk storage are often eligible. Other eligible supplies may encompass nursing pads and nipple creams or ointments, which address issues directly related to breastfeeding.

Most breast pumps and their direct accessories do not require a doctor’s prescription or a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) for FSA eligibility, but it is important to confirm with your plan administrator. An LMN, a document from a healthcare provider recommending a specific treatment or device, might be necessary if an item has a dual purpose, serving both medical and general health needs, or for certain specialized accessories. However, items like excess bottles not for storage or special bras that merely offer convenience are typically not eligible.

Claiming Your Reimbursement

There are two primary methods for utilizing FSA funds for eligible expenses: using an FSA debit card at the point of sale or submitting a claim for reimbursement after an out-of-pocket purchase. Many FSA plans provide a specialized debit card, which functions similarly to a regular debit card, allowing for direct payment at eligible merchants such as pharmacies and medical supply stores. Even when using an FSA debit card, it is important to retain all itemized receipts, as your plan administrator may periodically request them to substantiate the purchase and ensure compliance with IRS regulations.

For purchases made out-of-pocket, individuals must submit a claim for reimbursement. The necessary documentation for a claim typically includes an itemized receipt. This receipt must clearly display the date of purchase or service, the name of the vendor or provider, a detailed description of the item or service, and the total cost. If a prescription or Letter of Medical Necessity was required for the item’s eligibility, a copy of that document should also be included with the claim submission. If insurance covered any portion of the expense, an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from the insurance carrier may also be required.

Claims can typically be submitted through various channels, including online portals, mobile applications, mail, or fax, depending on the FSA administrator’s available options. After submission, the processing time for FSA reimbursement claims generally ranges from three to five business days. Once approved, reimbursement is commonly issued via direct deposit to a linked bank account or through a mailed check.