Can I Use My HSA to Pay for Gym Membership in 2018?

One of the common questions that individuals have about their Health Savings Account (HSA) is whether they can use it to pay for gym membership expenses in 2018. The good news is that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has defined certain criteria under which HSA funds can be used for gym memberships.

For gym membership payments to be considered eligible under an HSA, the primary purpose must be for medical care to treat a specific condition diagnosed by a healthcare professional. Here are some points to consider:

• The gym membership must be prescribed by a physician to alleviate a specific medical condition such as obesity, hypertension, or other chronic illnesses.
• The membership must not serve a general health or fitness purpose but should be directly related to treating a diagnosed medical condition.
• If you meet the IRS criteria mentioned above, you can use your HSA funds to pay for eligible expenses including gym memberships.
• It's essential to keep detailed records and documentation of the medical necessity of the gym membership, including the diagnosis and prescription from your healthcare provider.

In summary, while it is possible to use your HSA for gym memberships in 2018, the primary focus should be on treating a specific medical condition under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It's a common curiosity whether HSA funds can be used for gym memberships, particularly in 2018. The IRS sets specific criteria for these expenses to be eligible, focusing primarily on medical care.

For your gym membership to qualify as an HSA expense, it must be prescribed by a physician for the treatment of a diagnosed medical condition, such as obesity or high blood pressure.

• Your membership should be specifically directed at addressing serious health issues, rather than for general fitness goals.
• It is crucial to retain all documentation, including a physician’s prescription and diagnosis, to substantiate the necessity of the membership.
• Only under these conditions can you confidently utilize your HSA funds for gym memberships, turning exercise into a prescribed part of your health care.