Is a Massage Gun an FSA Eligible Expense?
Unlock FSA reimbursement for your massage gun. Learn the specific requirements and process to make health-related purchases eligible.
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allows individuals to set aside pre-tax money from their paycheck for qualified medical expenses. Many people utilize these accounts to manage healthcare costs and reduce their taxable income. A common question is whether a massage gun can be reimbursed through an FSA. Understanding FSA eligibility criteria is important for maximizing benefits.
Understanding FSA Eligibility
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines qualified medical expenses as amounts 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 broad definition encompasses a range of healthcare services and products. Common examples include doctor visits, prescription medications, dental care, and vision care, which are directly related to medical treatment.
Expenses must primarily serve a medical purpose rather than for general health improvement or cosmetic benefit. The IRS rules ensure that FSA funds are used for legitimate medical needs, distinguishing them from expenses for personal convenience or well-being.
Qualifying a Massage Gun for FSA Reimbursement
A massage gun is not an inherently eligible FSA expense. To qualify, it requires a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) or a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider. This document establishes the massage gun’s medical necessity for a specific condition.
An LMN must be issued by a licensed healthcare provider, such as a physician, chiropractor, physical therapist, nurse, psychiatrist, or psychologist. The letter needs to contain specific details to validate medical necessity.
LMN Required Information
Required information usually includes:
Patient’s name and medical history.
Clear diagnosis of the medical condition.
Detailed explanation of the massage gun’s necessity.
Recommended duration of treatment.
Letter date, provider’s relationship, contact information, and signature.
An LMN is valid for one year, requiring a new one annually if treatment continues.
The Reimbursement Process
After purchasing a massage gun and obtaining the LMN, submit a reimbursement claim to your FSA administrator. This process requires the LMN and an itemized receipt. The receipt should display the purchase date, amount paid, item description, and provider or store name.
Claims can be submitted through various methods, including an online portal, mobile app, mail, or fax. Administrators offer online platforms to complete a claim form and upload copies of your LMN and itemized receipt. After submission, claims are processed within a few business days, often 1 to 5 business days. Reimbursement is issued via direct deposit or check.