Is Feminine Wash 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 certain out-of-pocket healthcare costs. This arrangement helps reduce an individual’s taxable income, leading to potential tax savings on eligible medical and dental expenses.

General FSA Eligibility Guidelines

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines qualified medical expenses for FSA purposes as amounts paid primarily for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. This definition also includes expenses for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body. Eligible expenses encompass a broad range of healthcare services and products, such as deductibles, co-payments, and prescription medications. However, expenses for purely cosmetic purposes or general health items are not eligible unless they address a specific medical condition.

Feminine Hygiene Products and FSA Eligibility

Following legislative changes introduced by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, many over-the-counter feminine hygiene products are now considered qualified medical expenses. This change allows individuals to use their FSA funds for items previously considered general personal care. Products like tampons, pads, menstrual cups, liners, and sponges are explicitly included under this expanded eligibility.

Products primarily designed for menstrual care, such as those used to absorb or manage menstrual flow, are covered. However, feminine washes, sprays, moisturizers, or deodorants are not eligible, as they are classified as general hygiene products rather than menstrual care items. Checking product labeling and consulting with your FSA plan administrator can help confirm eligibility for specific items.

Using Your FSA for Eligible Items

Many FSA plans provide a dedicated debit card, allowing for direct payment at the point of sale for qualified medical expenses. When using an FSA debit card, it is recommended to select “credit” at the terminal, even though it functions as a debit card. For purchases made without the FSA debit card, individuals pay out-of-pocket and then submit a claim for reimbursement from their FSA.

Keeping detailed records is a necessary step in both payment methods. Even when using an FSA debit card, the IRS requires substantiation for all purchases, meaning you should retain itemized receipts. These receipts should include the date of service or purchase, a clear description of the item or service, the dollar amount, and the provider or store name. For reimbursement claims, these itemized receipts or an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) form must be submitted to the FSA administrator.