If you've ever asked yourself, "What can I buy with my FSA?"—you're not alone. Every year, millions of individuals search for FSA-eligible items to make the most of their Flexible Spending Account funds before they expire.
The good news is your FSA funds can be used on far more everyday health and wellness products than most people realize. From over-the-counter medications and first-aid supplies to menstrual products and sun protection, FSA-eligible purchases ensure that your health care extends well beyond the doctor's office.
To help you spend smarter, we've launched our ultimate FSA eligibility list, designed to educate you on how far your FSA funds can stretch, and help you quickly find approved products, shop with confidence, and avoid out-of-pocket surprises. Whether you're planning ahead or trying to spend before the use-it-or-lose-it deadline, our guide will show you how to get the biggest bang for your buck.
Eligible Expenses by Category
Everyday Medical & First Aid Essentials
Yes, you can use your FSA funds on those household staples that you stock up on every year. Prep your household with those everyday essentials, including over-the-counter medications (pain and allergy relievers, cold and flu medicine), first-aid items (Band-Aids, first-aid kits, and wound care supplies), and other basic medical supplies (thermometers, cleansing wipes, and more).
Vision & Eye Care Products
It's no secret that eye care can get expensive fast. But your FSA can make those valuable purchases more affordable. Cut costs by using your FSA funds for prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, and cleaning solutions! And eye care isn't just about vision: it's also about comfort. Give your eyes some relief with lubricating eye drops, or treat your eyes to luxury with FSA-eligible sleep masks and eye creams.
Sun & Skin Protection
Planning for your seasonal fun in the sun? Run out of one of your acne-treating skincare products? Either way, your FSA can help you save money. Let your FSA help you purchase sunscreens with an SPF of 15+ and broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection, acne-fighting face cleansers, hi-tech masks, and skin protectants.
Menstrual Products
The price of menstrual care products can add up quickly, especially if you're replacing them pretty frequently. With your FSA funds, you can save money on disposable or reusable menstrual products and invest in pain-relief items like heating pads or electrotherapy devices.
Pain Relief and Recovery Devices
Managing pain at home is increasingly important for individuals of all ages, and your FSA can help you do just that. Your FSA enables you to target different types of pain with a wide range of eligible products; from hot and cold therapy packs and heat wraps, to hi-tech massage guns and other targeted tools, you're sure to find relief in no time.
Diagnostic & Monitoring Tools
Preventive care doesn't have to start at the doctor's office; FSA-eligible diagnostic and monitoring tools can help you keep an eye on your health in the comfort of your own home. Track your general health with items like wearable trackers, check for more specific vitals with blood pressure and glucose monitors, and analyze your body composition with hi-tech smart scales.
Family Planning, Pregnancy, & Baby-Related Supplies
From the earliest stages of family planning to caring for a new baby, your FSA can help you save money every step of the way. Pregnancy and fertility tests are eligible, prenatal items such as vitamins and fetal dopplers are eligible, and postpartum items such as underwear, nursing pumps, and baby monitors are eligible. Your FSA supports you on your entire journey.
Lifestyle & Preventive Wellness Items
Invest a little more in a healthy lifestyle with some therapeutic and preventive products. Pick from items such as targeted massagers, TENS units, or compression products, or consider items that benefit your long-term health, such as smoking cessation aids.
Eligibility FAQs
Are over-the-counter (OTC) medications FSA eligible?
Yes. Most OTC medications, such as pain relievers, allergy medicine, cold and flu treatments, and heartburn medication, are FSA-eligible without a prescription.
Are pain relief and recovery devices FSA eligible?
Many are. Items like heating pads, ice packs, TENS units, and braces are often FSA-eligible when used to treat or prevent a medical condition.
Can I use my FSA for massage guns or heating pads?
Heating pads are generally FSA-eligible. Massage guns may be eligible depending on medical use and may require a Letter of Medical Necessity.
Are menstrual products FSA eligible?
Yes. Menstrual care products, such as pads, tampons, liners, and menstrual cups, are permanently FSA-eligible under the CARES Act.
Can I buy sunscreen with my FSA?
Yes. Sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and offers broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection is FSA eligible, including lotions, sprays, and sticks.
Are skincare products FSA eligible?
Skincare products are FSA-eligible if they treat a medical condition, such as acne, eczema, or rosacea. Cosmetic-only products are not eligible.
Can I use FSA funds for glasses, contacts, or vision care?
Yes. Prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, contact solution, and eye exams are all FSA-eligible.
Are dental products FSA eligible?
Many dental items are eligible, including toothpaste for sensitivity, mouth guards, orthodontic supplies, and dental treatments. Cosmetic dental products are not eligible.
Can I buy thermometers, blood pressure monitors, or health devices with my FSA?
Yes. Diagnostic and monitoring devices such as thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and pulse oximeters are generally FSA-eligible.
Are fertility, pregnancy, and baby items FSA eligible?
Many are. Fertility treatments, pregnancy tests, prenatal vitamins, breast pumps, and certain baby health items are often FSA-eligible.
Can I use FSA funds for mental health or wellness products?
Mental health treatments and medically necessary wellness products may be eligible, depending on your plan. General wellness or relaxation items usually require a Letter of Medical Necessity.
What’s the difference between FSA-eligible and HSA-eligible items?
Most products are eligible for both FSAs and HSAs. The main difference is that FSA funds may expire, while HSA funds roll over year to year.
What happens if I buy a non-eligible item with my FSA?
Your claim may be denied, or you may need to repay the amount to your employer. Using a verified eligibility list or a provider/store that accepts eligible RX transactions helps avoid this. You can check for stores that accept eligible RX transactions near you with the SIGIS Store Locator.
How do I know if a product is FSA approved?
Check the product’s eligibility status through your FSA provider or shop from a store that clearly labels FSA-eligible items.
How do I maximize my FSA spending before the deadline?
Review your balance early, prioritize everyday medical needs, and use eligibility lists like ours to guide you.
Do FSA funds expire?
In many plans, yes. FSA funds are typically subject to use-it-or-lose-it rules, though some plans offer a grace period or limited rollover. Always check your specific plan details so you don’t leave money unspent.
