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What Am I Eligible to Buy with a HSA Card?

Published May 14, 2024

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Short answer: You can use an HSA card to pay for qualified medical expenses such as prescription medications, doctor visits, dental care, eye care, some OTC medications with a prescription, and certain medical equipment, but not items like vitamins, supplements, cosmetic procedures, or non-prescription drugs.

What HSA cards can buy

Health Savings Account (HSA) cards are a convenient way to pay for qualified medical expenses using pre-tax dollars. But, what exactly can you purchase with your HSA card?

Here are some of the items you are eligible to buy with a HSA card:

  • Prescription medications
  • Doctor visits and medical services
  • Dental care, including cleanings and procedures
  • Eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses
  • Some over-the-counter medications with a prescription
  • Medical equipment like crutches, wheelchairs, and braces

Check IRS criteria before buying

It's important to note that not all expenses are eligible for HSA card purchases. Items like vitamins, supplements, cosmetic procedures, and non-prescription drugs are typically not covered.

Before making a purchase with your HSA card, it's a good idea to check if the expense is considered a qualified medical expense by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This will help you avoid any potential issues or penalties in the future.

Always ensure you check that any expense you plan to pay with your HSA card aligns with the IRS's criteria for qualified medical expenses to avoid any tax complications down the line.

Qualified purchases and common exclusions

Health Savings Account (HSA) cards provide a fantastic way for individuals to cover their healthcare costs using their pre-tax earnings, ensuring that your healthcare spending is as efficient as possible. But what can you really use your HSA card for?

Among the qualified purchases with an HSA card are:

  • Prescription medications, essential for your health
  • Doctor visits and necessary medical services, keeping you healthy and informed
  • Dental care, including routine cleanings and any required procedures
  • Eye care, such as exams, glasses, and contact lenses
  • Over-the-counter medications when prescribed by your doctor
  • Medical equipment, including crutches, wheelchairs, and support braces

However, it’s key to keep in mind that not every expenditure is eligible. Common items, such as vitamins, health supplements, beauty treatments, and non-prescription drugs generally don’t qualify.

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