Does FSA Cover Protein Powder? What You Need to Know

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow individuals to set aside pre-tax money from their paycheck to cover qualified medical expenses. This arrangement reduces an individual’s taxable income, offering a financial advantage for managing healthcare costs throughout the year. Funds deposited into an FSA must typically be used within the plan year, though some plans may offer a grace period or a limited carryover amount.

General Eligibility for Over-the-Counter Items

Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications and health-related items are eligible for FSA reimbursement without a prescription. This expanded eligibility applies to items like pain relievers, cold medications, and first-aid supplies. Not all health-related products automatically qualify for reimbursement. Items for general health or wellness, rather than for treating a specific medical condition, often require additional documentation or a medical justification.

Specific Coverage for Protein Powder

Protein powder is generally not eligible for FSA reimbursement when used for general health, fitness, or dietary supplementation. Its eligibility is limited to very specific circumstances where it is considered a “medical food” and prescribed by a healthcare provider for the treatment of a diagnosed medical condition. This means the protein powder must be an integral part of a treatment plan to address a specific illness or physical ailment, rather than simply a nutritional enhancement. For example, it might be considered necessary for individuals with severe malnourishment, certain metabolic disorders, or those recovering from surgery who require specific nutritional support that cannot be met through conventional food intake.

Obtaining a Letter of Medical Necessity

To justify protein powder reimbursement through an FSA, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) is typically required from a qualified healthcare professional. This document, issued by a physician or registered dietitian, confirms the protein powder is medically necessary for treating a specific condition. The LMN must include the patient’s diagnosis, a clear explanation of why protein powder is required to treat or alleviate the condition, and how it directly relates to the medical condition. It should also specify the recommended dosage, the duration for which it is needed, and, if applicable, the specific type or brand of protein powder.

Submitting Your FSA Claim

After purchasing the protein powder and obtaining a valid Letter of Medical Necessity, you can submit your FSA claim. The process typically requires an itemized receipt for the protein powder, clearly showing the purchase date and amount. This receipt, along with the LMN, should be submitted to your FSA administrator through their designated method (e.g., online portal, mobile app, mail, or fax). FSA administrators typically process claims within one to two weeks, though it can take up to 30 days. Reimbursement is typically issued via direct deposit or a check, and the administrator may request additional information if the submitted documents are incomplete or unclear.