Are Inversion Tables FSA Eligible? Find Out How
Navigate the process of getting an inversion table covered by your Flexible Spending Account. Learn what's needed for eligibility and claims.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) offer a tax-advantaged method for individuals to pay for eligible healthcare costs by setting aside pre-tax money from their paycheck. Inversion tables, devices often used for addressing back pain, may qualify for reimbursement through your FSA.
Understanding FSA Eligibility
For an expense to qualify for reimbursement through a Flexible Spending Account, it must meet the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) definition of a “qualified medical expense.” IRS Publication 502 defines these as costs incurred for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body. Expenses solely for general health improvement, such as vitamins, are typically not eligible.
Many items, particularly medical devices or therapies not commonly prescribed, often require a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) for eligibility. An LMN is a document from a licensed healthcare provider, such as a doctor, stating that a particular item or service is medically necessary. This letter confirms the item’s direct role in treating a specific medical condition.
The LMN demonstrates to your FSA administrator that the expense is for a legitimate medical purpose rather than general wellness or personal use. Without this documentation, expenses for items that could have both medical and non-medical applications are generally not approved for reimbursement. This requirement ensures compliance with IRS regulations governing FSA funds.
Specific Requirements for Inversion Tables
Inversion tables are generally eligible for FSA reimbursement, but they typically necessitate a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a healthcare provider. Inversion tables can be perceived as general wellness equipment without specific medical justification, so the LMN confirms the device’s role in treating a diagnosed condition.
The LMN for an inversion table must contain specific details to validate its medical necessity. It should clearly state the particular medical condition the inversion table is intended to treat, such as chronic back pain, sciatica, or a herniated disc. The letter also needs to explain how the inversion table will alleviate or treat this condition and specify the duration for which the device is needed.
The LMN must be signed and dated by a licensed healthcare provider, such as a physician. This letter should ideally be obtained before purchasing the inversion table or submitting your reimbursement claim. Maintain a copy of the LMN, along with the purchase receipt, for your records.
Submitting Your FSA Claim
After purchasing your inversion table and securing the necessary Letter of Medical Necessity, the next step involves submitting your claim for reimbursement. Most FSA administrators offer several convenient ways to submit claims, including online portals, mobile applications, or through mail or fax. The specific method depends on your plan administrator’s available options.
When submitting your claim, you must provide specific documentation. This typically includes an itemized receipt for the inversion table purchase and the Letter of Medical Necessity. The receipt should clearly display the date of purchase, the vendor’s name, a description of the item, and the total amount paid. Credit card slips or canceled checks are usually not sufficient as they often lack the required itemized detail.
You should send these documents to your FSA administrator according to their instructions. Claim processing times can vary, but many administrators process claims within one to two business days after receiving and verifying all required documentation. Always retain copies of all submitted documents for your personal records, as you are accountable to the IRS for proving the eligibility of all expenses.