What Can I Spend an HSA on? Your Ultimate Guide to HSA Expenses

If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), you may be wondering what expenses you can use it for. An HSA is a tax-advantaged account that allows you to save money for medical expenses. Here's a comprehensive guide to what you can spend your HSA on:

Approved HSA Expenses:

• Doctor's visits and appointments
• Prescription medications
• Medical equipment like crutches or wheelchairs
• Dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and braces
• Vision care, such as eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses
• Mental health services and counseling
• Chiropractic care
• Acupuncture

Additional HSA Expenses:

While the list above covers most common expenses, there are some additional items you may not be aware you can spend your HSA funds on:

• Birth control pills
• Smoking cessation programs
• Weight loss programs for specific medical conditions
• First aid supplies
• Transportation expenses related to medical care

Non-Qualified Expenses:

It's important to note that there are some expenses that are not eligible for HSA funds, such as:

• Cosmetic procedures
• Over-the-counter medications without a prescription
• Health club dues
• General supplements and vitamins
• Non-prescription skincare products

Be sure to keep receipts and records of your HSA expenses to ensure you are using the funds appropriately. Consult with your HSA provider or tax advisor if you have any questions about eligible expenses.

If you're maximizing your Health Savings Account (HSA), understanding what you can spend it on is essential. HSAs are designed to help you manage your medical expenses while providing you with tax advantages. Below is an in-depth look at what qualifies as an HSA expense:

Approved HSA Expenses:

• Visits to your primary care physician and specialists
• Medications prescribed by your doctor
• Essential medical equipment like wheelchairs, crutches, and braces
• Dental treatments including orthodontics, fillings, and preventive visits
• Eye care costs, covering eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses
• Mental health services, such as therapy and counseling
• Chiropractor services for spinal adjustments
• Acupuncture treatments for various health issues

Additional HSA Expenses:

Besides the commonly known expenses, your HSA can cover some surprising items that might be beneficial to your health:

• Birth control prescriptions and devices
• Programs to help quit smoking
• Weight loss programs specifically for diagnosed medical conditions
• First aid supplies like band-aids, gauze, and antiseptics
• Travel costs related to medical treatment that may include gas mileage or public transport fares

Non-Qualified Expenses:

While HSAs provide great benefits, certain expenses won't qualify for HSA funds, so it’s crucial to be aware:

• Cosmetic surgery or procedures aimed purely at enhancing appearance
• Over-the-counter medications unless prescribed
• Gym memberships and health club fees
• General supplements, vitamins, and herbal remedies
• Skincare products marketed without a medical purpose

Always keep your receipts and documentation in check, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your HSA provider or a tax advisor with questions about eligible expenditures.