Can You Buy Sunglasses with HSA? Understanding HSA Eligible Purchases

If you're wondering whether you can purchase sunglasses with your HSA, you're not alone. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a great way to save money on eligible healthcare expenses, but the rules around what you can and cannot buy with your HSA funds can be a bit confusing.

When it comes to buying sunglasses with your HSA, the answer is: it depends. In general, sunglasses are considered a personal expense rather than a medical necessity, so they are not usually eligible for reimbursement with HSA funds. However, there are some situations in which you may be able to use your HSA to buy sunglasses:

• If sunglasses are prescribed by a doctor to treat a specific medical condition, such as light sensitivity due to an eye condition
• If sunglasses have vision correction, such as prescription sunglasses
• If sunglasses are designed to protect your eyes from UV rays and are labeled as medical-grade

It's important to keep in mind that you will need a prescription or a letter of medical necessity from your doctor to prove that the sunglasses are a qualified medical expense if you plan to use your HSA funds for this purpose.

Remember, one of the key benefits of an HSA is that the funds roll over year after year, so even if you can't use your HSA to buy sunglasses now, you can save up for future healthcare expenses.

When it comes to using your Health Savings Account (HSA) for sunglasses, the situation can often be more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While regular sunglasses are typically viewed as a personal purchase, there are certainly circumstances where they may qualify for HSA reimbursement.