Can I Buy Supplements With My HSA Account?
Understand the precise rules for buying supplements with your HSA. Learn about IRS eligibility, medical necessity, and essential documentation.
A Health Savings Account (HSA) offers a tax-advantaged way to save and pay for qualified medical expenses. While HSAs are designed to cover a wide range of healthcare costs, the eligibility of supplements is not straightforward and depends on specific Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines.
Understanding HSA-Eligible Expenses
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines HSA-eligible medical expenses. According to IRS Publication 502, medical care expenses are payments for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for affecting any structure or function of the body. This definition covers common healthcare costs like doctor visits, prescription medications, and dental or vision care.
Expenses for general health or wellness, or those that are merely beneficial to overall health, do not qualify. The expense must directly address a medical condition. This distinction helps determine eligibility for HSA reimbursement.
When Supplements Qualify
Supplements are HSA-eligible only under specific circumstances. To qualify, a supplement must be used to treat or prevent a diagnosed medical condition, not for general health maintenance. A medical professional must recommend the supplement for a specific health issue.
A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) or a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider is required. This document confirms medical necessity for your specific condition. Examples include iron supplements for diagnosed anemia, vitamin D for a documented deficiency, or glucosamine for arthritis.
Required Documentation
Account holders must substantiate the eligibility of all HSA expenses. When purchasing supplements with HSA funds, retain detailed documentation. This includes the original receipt for the supplement purchase, showing the item, cost, and date.
Keep the Letter of Medical Necessity or prescription from your healthcare provider. This documentation should specify the medical condition being treated, the recommended supplement, and the treatment duration. Maintain these records in case the IRS or your HSA administrator requests proof of eligibility during an audit or review.
Supplements That Do Not Qualify
Many common supplements do not meet IRS criteria for HSA eligibility. Supplements purchased solely for general health improvement, daily wellness routines, or for purposes like weight loss, athletic performance enhancement, or cosmetic benefits typically do not qualify. This applies even if a health professional generally recommends them for overall well-being.
For instance, general multivitamins, protein powders, or energy bars are generally not HSA-eligible unless prescribed for a specific medical condition. The expense must directly relate to a diagnosed medical need, rather than merely supporting overall good health. Without a specific medical necessity, these items are considered personal expenses and cannot be reimbursed from an HSA.