Can You Use Your FSA for a Massage Gun?
Navigate FSA eligibility for healthcare items. Understand requirements and how to claim expenses effectively.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow individuals to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover eligible healthcare expenses. This tax-advantaged approach can lead to significant savings on medical, dental, and vision costs. Understanding which products and services qualify for reimbursement is important to maximize FSA benefits.
Understanding FSA Eligibility
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines qualified medical expenses as costs for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for treatments affecting any structure or function of the body. This broad definition covers a wide range of healthcare services and products.
Common examples of eligible expenses include doctor visits, prescription medications, dental work, and vision care. Over-the-counter medications and supplies, such as bandages, contact lens solution, or blood sugar test kits, qualify without a prescription. However, not all health-related items meet the IRS criteria, particularly those used for general wellness or relaxation.
Requirements for Specific Medical Devices
For items like massage guns, eligibility for FSA reimbursement requires additional documentation. If a massage gun is used primarily for pain relief or to treat a specific medical condition, it may qualify. Conversely, if its primary use is for general well-being or relaxation, it does not qualify without further medical justification.
To establish medical necessity for such devices, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) or a doctor’s prescription is required. An LMN is a written statement from a qualified healthcare provider confirming the device is medically necessary to treat a specific condition or alleviate a symptom. This letter should specify the patient’s diagnosis, how the massage gun will be used to treat or alleviate the condition, and the duration of the need.
The LMN must be obtained and dated prior to the purchase of the device. Even with an LMN, the final determination of eligibility rests with the FSA administrator, who reviews the documentation for compliance with IRS regulations.
Submitting Your FSA Claim
Once a qualifying purchase is made, and any necessary Letter of Medical Necessity has been secured, submit a claim for reimbursement. The documentation required for an FSA claim includes a detailed receipt and, if applicable, the LMN or prescription. The receipt should clearly show the item purchased, the date of purchase, the amount, and the provider’s name.
Claims can be submitted through various methods, including online portals, mobile applications, or by mail or fax. FSA administrators process claims within one to two business days after receipt and verification. Reimbursement is then issued via direct deposit or check.
It is important to submit claims within the plan’s specified deadlines. Maintaining copies of all submitted documentation, including receipts and LMNs, is advisable for personal records and future reference. This practice ensures compliance and facilitates any future inquiries regarding the expense.