Are Tampons and Pads FSA Eligible?

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is an employer-sponsored benefit that allows individuals to set aside pre-tax money from their paycheck to pay for eligible healthcare expenses. This tax-advantaged account helps manage out-of-pocket medical costs. Tampons and pads, along with other menstrual products, are indeed FSA-eligible.

FSA Eligibility for Menstrual Products

A Flexible Spending Account operates by allowing employees to contribute pre-tax dollars from their earnings into a dedicated account for qualified medical expenses. This arrangement helps reduce taxable income, offering a financial advantage for healthcare spending. These funds can cover a wide range of health-related costs, including deductibles, co-payments, and various medical office visits.

Historically, menstrual products were not considered eligible medical expenses for FSA reimbursement. This changed with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act in March 2020, which permanently expanded the definition of “qualified medical expenses” to include menstrual care products.

This legislative update recognized these items as essential healthcare necessities. Consequently, products such as tampons, pads, panty liners, menstrual cups, and period underwear are now eligible for FSA reimbursement without requiring a doctor’s prescription.

Using Your FSA for Purchases

Utilizing your FSA for eligible purchases, including menstrual products, involves two primary methods. Many FSA plans provide a dedicated debit card, which functions like a standard bank debit card linked directly to your Flexible Spending Account. This card can be used directly at the point of sale at various retailers, such as drugstores, grocery stores, and online merchants that accept healthcare benefit cards.

When using the FSA debit card, selecting “credit” at the terminal is recommended, even though it operates as a debit transaction. While the debit card streamlines the process by deducting funds automatically, it is crucial to retain itemized receipts for all purchases. These receipts serve as documentation for verification by your FSA administrator or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), ensuring compliance with eligibility guidelines.

Alternatively, you can pay for eligible items out-of-pocket and then submit a claim for reimbursement. This process involves completing a reimbursement request form provided by your FSA administrator, often available through an online portal or mobile application. Proper documentation, including itemized receipts, is crucial for a reimbursement claim. Receipts must clearly show the product name, date of purchase, amount paid, and the merchant. Credit card statements or canceled checks are not sufficient as proof of purchase for reimbursement.

Other Common FSA-Eligible Items

Beyond menstrual products, Flexible Spending Accounts cover a broad spectrum of common healthcare expenses. Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications are eligible, including pain relievers, allergy medicines, and cold and flu remedies. This also extends to various first-aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and wound care products.

Diagnostic devices such as thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and blood glucose test kits are also covered. For vision care, FSAs include expenses for contact lenses, prescription glasses, and certain eye drops. Other eligible items range from breast pumps and prenatal vitamins to co-payments, deductibles, and dental or vision services. Always confirm specific eligibility with your FSA plan administrator, as coverage details can vary.