Are Razors and Shaving Supplies FSA Eligible?

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) offers a valuable way to pay for certain health-related expenses with pre-tax dollars, helping individuals save money by reducing their taxable income. Understanding what qualifies as an eligible expense is important for maximizing FSA benefits. This article clarifies the eligibility of common personal care items, specifically razors and shaving supplies, for FSA reimbursement.

Understanding FSA Eligibility for Everyday Items

FSA eligibility hinges on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) definition of “medical expenses,” which are costs paid 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 distinguishes between items essential for health and those used for general health maintenance, personal hygiene, or cosmetic purposes.

For an item to be eligible, its primary purpose must be medical, not general well-being. Items that are merely beneficial to general health, like vitamins or certain dietary supplements, are typically not eligible unless prescribed to treat a specific medical condition. The IRS provides guidance in Publication 502, which details what qualifies as a deductible medical expense. While this publication serves as a general guide, not all items listed are universally eligible for FSA reimbursement, as specific plan documents may have additional exclusions.

Specific Eligibility of Razors and Shaving Supplies

Razors, razor blades, shaving cream, and other typical shaving supplies are generally not considered eligible for FSA reimbursement. These products are primarily for personal hygiene and cosmetic grooming, rather than for treating a specific medical condition.

A rare exception exists if a healthcare provider prescribes a razor or specific shaving supplies for a particular medical condition. For example, a dermatologist might recommend a specialized shaving tool to manage a severe skin condition. In such cases, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) is typically required. An LMN is a document from a licensed healthcare provider certifying that the product or service is medically necessary to treat a specific condition, outlining the diagnosis, recommended treatment, and duration.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020 expanded FSA eligibility to include over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and menstrual products without a prescription. However, this legislative change did not extend eligibility to general personal care items like razors or typical shaving creams, which remain ineligible unless supported by an LMN for a specific medical purpose.

Using Your FSA for Eligible Purchases

Once an expense is determined to be FSA eligible, there are common methods for using your funds. Many FSA plans provide a debit card, which allows for direct payment at the point of sale for eligible items. This card functions similarly to a regular debit card but draws funds specifically from your FSA. While convenient, it is important to save all receipts, as the IRS requires proof for all FSA purchases, and your plan administrator may request documentation even if the card transaction was initially approved.

Alternatively, you can pay for eligible expenses out-of-pocket and then submit a claim for reimbursement. This process typically involves completing a claim form and providing detailed supporting documentation. Required documentation usually includes an itemized receipt showing the date of service or purchase, the merchant or provider name, a description of the item or service, and the amount paid. If an LMN was required for eligibility, it must also be submitted with the reimbursement claim.