Are Massage Chairs FSA Eligible? What You Need for Approval

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) offer a valuable way for individuals to save on healthcare costs by allowing pre-tax contributions for eligible medical expenses. Many people wonder if specific items, particularly those that blend therapeutic benefits with personal comfort, qualify for these funds. A common question revolves around whether a massage chair, often seen as a luxury item, can be an eligible expense for FSA reimbursement. Understanding the specific criteria and documentation required is important for navigating this process effectively.

Understanding FSA Eligibility

For an expense to be considered eligible for Flexible Spending Account (FSA) reimbursement, it must meet the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) definition of a “qualified medical expense.” This definition, detailed in IRS Publication 502, outlines expenses incurred primarily for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for affecting any structure or function of the body. Expenses for general health and wellness, or those solely for personal convenience, are not reimbursable. For instance, a health club membership is not an eligible expense unless prescribed for a specific medical condition.

The IRS distinguishes between items solely for medical care and those with a dual purpose. Items like over-the-counter medications and supplies are eligible without a prescription if they treat a specific condition, but general vitamins or cosmetic items are not. The primary intent behind the expense must be directly related to a medical need. Account holders are responsible to the IRS to prove the eligibility of any expense they submit for reimbursement.

Qualifying a Massage Chair as a Medical Expense

A massage chair, while often used for relaxation, can become an FSA-eligible expense if deemed medically necessary to treat a specific health condition. This requires demonstrating the chair’s primary purpose is medical treatment rather than general well-being or comfort. Conditions such as chronic pain, arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, high blood pressure, or stress-related conditions impacting physical health might justify its eligibility. Obtaining a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a licensed healthcare professional is the key step.

The LMN serves as certification from a doctor or other medical practitioner explaining why a specific item or service is recommended to treat a health condition. This letter should explicitly state the patient’s diagnosed medical condition and how the massage chair will treat that condition. It must detail the recommended treatment, including the duration for which the expense will be needed. The healthcare provider must certify the massage chair is medically necessary.

The LMN should include details such as the medical condition being treated, a description of the treatment (e.g., frequency of use), and the estimated duration of need. For instance, if the chair is recommended for chronic back pain, the letter would explain how the massage functions to alleviate that pain. While some FSA plans might not always require an LMN, it is advisable to obtain one to substantiate medical necessity. This documentation ensures the expense aligns with IRS guidelines for qualified medical expenses.

Submitting Your FSA Claim

Once you have purchased your massage chair and obtained the necessary documentation, including a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) if required, submit your claim for reimbursement. Gather your itemized receipt for the purchase, as this document is necessary to verify the expense. This receipt should show the date of purchase, a description of the item, and the total dollar amount paid. If your health insurance covered any portion of the expense, you might also need an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statement.

Most FSA providers offer several methods for submitting claims, including online portals, mobile applications, fax, or traditional mail. Online submissions and mobile apps provide the fastest processing times, within one to two business days after verification. When submitting, complete a claim form, either digitally or on paper, filling in details such as the date of service or purchase, the provider or store name, and the expense amount. Ensure all required fields are accurately completed to avoid delays in processing.

After submitting your claim, keep copies of all documents for your records in case additional information is requested or for future audits. Some FSA plans allow the use of a benefits card at the point of sale, which can automatically approve purchases without additional documentation for certain eligible items. However, for larger or less common expenses like a massage chair, manual submission with supporting documentation is necessary. Reimbursement is issued via direct deposit or check once the claim is approved. Many FSA plans have specific deadlines for submitting claims for expenses incurred in a given plan year, extending a few months into the following calendar year.