10 Surprisingly Eligible FSA Expenses

Flexible spending accounts are employer-owned accounts available to employees for healthcare-related spending. Employees can take advantage of these subsidies by indicating the total amount they’d like placed in the account at the beginning of the year, then using those pre-tax funds for copays, prescriptions and more. To cover the funds, employers withhold a portion of each paycheck. While this system allows individuals to access money for medical care when they need it, there is one drawback: Any funds left in the account by the end of the year are forfeited. This means that as the year draws to a close, you may want to use your remaining balance. Fortunately, there are many FSA eligible expenses you can take advantage of.

1. Hand Sanitizer
When cold and flu season hits, hand sanitizer can decrease your risk of getting sick by killing harmful bacteria. Due to its preventative uses, hand sanitizer is considered a health-related item you can buy using FSA funds.

2. Gym Membership
Exercise is a great way to prevent heart disease and obesity, as well as contribute to your overall health. If you have a pre-existing condition that can be managed with regular exercise, gym membership fees may be FSA eligible.

3. Lip Balm
Your skin is your largest organ and deserves just as much care as the rest of you. Lip balm is an easy and affordable way to keep your lips hydrated, especially in cold weather. If you’re trying to use up the last of your FSA funds, consider picking up a lip balm in your favorite scent.

4. Birth Control Pills
Prescription contraception is eligible for FSA funds. When you pick up your pills at the pharmacy, make sure to use your flexible spending account.

5. Sunscreen
Sun exposure is a major cause of skin cancer and the risk of developing melanoma increases the more exposure you have. To protect your skin from UV damage, use your FSA to buy sunscreen.

6. Diaper Rash Cream
Diaper rash is a common issue for infants. With a prescription, you can get cream that soothes skin and helps rashes heal quicker.

7. In Vitro Fertilization
Some couples struggle to conceive naturally or need to seek alternative means to start a family. In vitro fertilization, also called IVF, is a reproductive healthcare technique that helps people have children in a variety of scenarios.

8. Hypoallergenic Pillow Protectors and Pillows
Allergies can lead to more serious medical conditions, such as a respiratory infection, if not dealt with. Hypoallergenic pillows and protectors can help people with allergies sleep more deeply and stay healthy.

9. Acupuncture
This Eastern healthcare technique can be used to treat a variety of issues:

• Poor digestion
• Pain
• Trouble sleeping

Under certain circumstances, you may be able to pay for it with FSA funds.

10. AA Meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous is a free program, but you can use an FSA account to make donations. Since it’s an organization that’s saved and improved countless lives, it’s a great way to use up funds at the end of the year.

​Do you need to find an insurance carrier? Sackett & Associates Insurance Services can help. For more information, give us a call at (707) 823-3689 or contact us online.