What Can I Use My Flex Card For? A Comprehensive Breakdown

A flex card, linked to a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), allows individuals to pay for eligible medical expenses using pre-tax dollars, reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs while maximizing tax savings. Understanding what expenses are covered ensures effective use of these benefits.

Doctor Visits

A flex card covers copays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits, including routine check-ups and specialist appointments. Those with high-deductible health plans can use pre-tax funds to manage upfront expenses before insurance applies.

Diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, and MRIs are also eligible. Telehealth consultations, which have become more common, are typically covered, allowing patients to receive medical advice remotely.

Prescription Medications

Flex cards can be used for prescription medications, including short-term treatments like antibiotics and long-term maintenance drugs for chronic conditions. Most pharmacies accept flex cards, making it easier to manage recurring medication costs.

Both brand-name and generic drugs qualify, but it’s important to verify coverage under FSA or HSA guidelines. Specialty medications for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis can be costly, but using pre-tax dollars helps reduce the financial burden. Some preventive medications, such as those for high blood pressure or cholesterol, may be eligible without requiring a prescription under HSA rules.

Compounded medications—customized drugs prepared by a pharmacist—are covered if prescribed and medically necessary, benefiting patients needing alternative formulations due to allergies or other health concerns.

Vision Care

Flex cards help cover vision care costs, including routine eye exams that detect vision changes and conditions like glaucoma or cataracts. Annual exams are recommended, especially for those who wear corrective lenses.

Prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses are eligible expenses, including specialty lenses with anti-glare coatings or blue light filtering. Contact lens solutions and storage cases are also covered.

Corrective procedures like LASIK and PRK surgery, typically not covered by insurance, are eligible expenses. Prescription sunglasses, which provide UV protection while correcting vision, also qualify.

Dental Services

A flex card covers preventive dental care such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays, which help maintain oral health and catch potential issues early.

Restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and root canals are eligible, as are more extensive procedures such as periodontal therapy for gum disease. Dental prosthetics, including dentures and bridges, qualify as well.

Orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners may be covered if deemed medically necessary. Night guards prescribed for teeth grinding or TMJ disorders are also eligible.

Over-the-Counter Items

Flex cards can be used for over-the-counter (OTC) health products, including pain relievers, allergy medications, and cold and flu treatments. Since 2020, IRS regulations have allowed OTC medications to be purchased with FSA and HSA funds without a prescription.

First aid supplies such as bandages, antiseptics, and thermometers are covered. Prenatal vitamins, which support maternal health, and smoking cessation aids like nicotine patches and gum are also eligible.

Medical Equipment

A flex card helps cover medical equipment that supports ongoing health needs. Eligible items include blood pressure monitors, glucose testing kits, and mobility aids such as crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs.

Specialized medical devices like CPAP machines for sleep apnea and TENS units for pain management may also qualify. These often require a prescription, but once approved, they can be purchased using pre-tax funds. Replacement parts and accessories, such as CPAP masks or test strips for glucose monitors, are typically covered as well.