What Stuff Can You Charge on a HSA Card?

Check eligibility on the go — browse 7,000+ HSA-eligible products in the free app.

What an HSA and HSA card cover

When you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), it's essential to understand what purchases you can make using your HSA card. An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account specifically for medical expenses, and it comes with a debit card that you can use to pay for eligible healthcare-related costs.

Here's a list of items you can charge on your HSA card:

Eligible HSA purchases and common examples

• Prescription medications
• Doctor's office visits and copays
• Dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and braces
• Eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses
• Over-the-counter medications with a prescription
• Medical equipment like crutches, blood pressure monitors, and wheelchairs
• Mental health counseling and therapy sessions
• Smoking cessation programs
• Chiropractic care

It's important to note that not all healthcare expenses are eligible for HSA funds. Here are a few items that are generally not allowed:

• Cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or plastic surgery
• Health club memberships or gym equipment
• Non-prescription vitamins and supplements
• OTC medications without a prescription
• Childcare or elder care expenses

Generally not allowed HSA expenses list

By using your HSA card wisely on qualified medical expenses, you can save money on taxes while investing in your health and well-being. Remember to keep receipts and documentation for all HSA purchases to prove their eligibility if audited by the IRS.

When using your Health Savings Account (HSA), it’s critical to know what you can pay for with your HSA card to maximize its benefits. Your HSA is not just a way to save for medical expenses, but a tool to help ensure that you can afford necessary healthcare without breaking the bank.

Here’s an updated list of reimbursable items that you can confidently charge on your HSA card:

Updated eligible items and not-allowed examples

• Prescription medications that target chronic conditions
• Doctor's office visits, including any copays associated with those visits
• Routine dental care, such as cleanings and fillings, as well as orthodontics for braces
• Eye care services, including exams along with purchases of glasses and contacts
• Over-the-counter medications can be reimbursed if prescribed by a healthcare provider
• Durable medical equipment like crutches or wheelchairs that assist patients
• Therapies for mental health support, such as counseling sessions
• Programs to help stop smoking, which are considered preventive care
• Alternative therapies, including chiropractic services

Be mindful that certain expenses fall outside the range of HSA eligibility. Here are examples of what typically cannot be charged:

• Cosmetic treatments that improve appearance, including teeth whitening
• Memberships to gyms or fitness programs that are not health-related
• Vitamins or supplements that don’t come with a doctor’s recommendation
• OTC medications without the necessary prescription
• Expenses related to child or elder care that do not pertain to health services

By smartly using your HSA funds on legitimate medical expenditures, you ensure savings on your taxable income while prioritizing your health needs. Always save your receipts and documentation for any HSA transactions, as these may be necessary for verification during IRS audits.