Is Bariatric Surgery an Eligible HSA Deductible Expense?

When it comes to managing your health savings account (HSA), it's important to know what expenses are eligible for deduction. One common question that arises is whether bariatric surgery is considered an eligible expense under an HSA.

Here's what you need to know:

• Bariatric surgery is indeed an eligible HSA deductible expense if it is prescribed by a healthcare professional to treat a specific medical condition related to obesity.
• There are specific criteria that need to be met for bariatric surgery to be considered eligible, including a body mass index (BMI) above a certain threshold and documented attempts at other weight loss methods.
• It's crucial to keep detailed records of your diagnosis, treatment plan, and expenses related to bariatric surgery for documentation and tax purposes.
• As with any HSA expense, it's recommended to consult with a tax advisor or healthcare provider to ensure you meet all requirements before using HSA funds for bariatric surgery.

When considering your health savings account (HSA), it's essential to be aware of which expenses qualify for deduction. A frequently asked question is whether bariatric surgery falls under the eligible expenses of an HSA.

Let's break it down:

• Bariatric surgery can be covered by your HSA, provided it is deemed medically necessary by your healthcare provider as a treatment for obesity-related health issues.
• To qualify, you typically need to meet criteria like a body mass index (BMI) that exceeds a specified number and have documented evidence of previous weight loss attempts.
• Keep comprehensive records of all medical documentation, including your diagnosis, the treatment plan, and any expenses incurred when undergoing bariatric surgery to substantiate your claim for HSA reimbursement.
• As always, speaking with a tax professional or your healthcare provider is wise to ensure compliance with all eligibility requirements before using HSA funds for your surgery.