Is LASIK Eye Surgery Considered a Qualified Expense for HSA?

If you are considering LASIK eye surgery and have a Health Savings Account (HSA), you may wonder whether this procedure is a qualified expense that can be paid for using your HSA funds. LASIK surgery, which can significantly improve vision and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts, is a popular choice for many people looking to correct their vision.

As a tax-advantaged savings account, an HSA allows individuals to save money specifically for medical expenses. To determine if LASIK surgery qualifies as an eligible expense for HSA funds, it is important to consider the criteria set forth by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The IRS allows HSA funds to be used for qualified medical expenses, which are defined as expenses incurred for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. This includes expenses for medical services, treatments, and procedures that are intended to affect a structure or function of the body.

While LASIK surgery is considered an elective procedure since it is typically performed to improve vision rather than treat a medical condition, it may still be eligible for HSA reimbursement under certain circumstances. In general, LASIK surgery may be considered a qualified expense for HSA if it is deemed medically necessary to correct a vision impairment that affects the individual's ability to perform daily activities.

It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or tax advisor to determine if your LASIK surgery can be paid for using HSA funds. They can help assess whether your specific situation meets the criteria for HSA eligibility and provide guidance on how to properly document the expense for tax purposes.

Are you thinking about undergoing LASIK eye surgery and have set aside funds in your Health Savings Account (HSA)? It’s an excellent idea to explore whether this procedure qualifies as a reimbursable expense under your HSA. LASIK, loved by many for its ability to greatly improve vision, could be a game changer for some, making it all the more important to understand your HSA options.