The Top Prescription and OTC Items You Can Buy with HSA/FSA

‍

Your HSA or FSA can cover far more than just doctor visits and prescriptions. From everyday pain relievers to specialized medical equipment, understanding what's eligible can transform how you shop for health products and maximize your tax-advantaged spending.

‍

This comprehensive list covers the most popular and valuable items you can purchase with HSA/FSA funds, helping you make the most of every tax-free dollar while staying compliant with IRS requirements.

‍

‍

Always Eligible: Prescription Medications

‍

All prescription drugs are eligible when prescribed by licensed healthcare providers, including:

‍

• Chronic condition medications (diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure)
• Antibiotics and infection treatments
• Mental health medications (antidepressants, anxiety medications)
• Hormonal treatments and birth control
• Specialty medications and biologics
• Compounded prescriptions from licensed pharmacies

‍

Pro tip: Prescription costs not covered by insurance are perfect HSA/FSA expenses, including high deductible amounts and non-formulary medications.

‍

‍

Over-the-Counter Medications (No Prescription Needed)

‍

Since 2020, most OTC medications are eligible without prescriptions:

‍

Pain and fever relief:

‍

• Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin
• Topical pain relievers and muscle rubs
• Migraine and headache medications
• Arthritis and joint pain treatments

‍

Cold, flu, and allergy relief:

‍

• Decongestants and antihistamines
• Cough drops and throat lozenges
• Nasal sprays and sinus medications
• Chest rubs and vapor treatments

‍

Digestive health:

‍

• Antacids and acid reducers
• Anti-diarrheal medications
• Laxatives and fiber supplements
• Probiotics for digestive health

‍

Sleep and wellness:

‍

• Sleep aids and melatonin
• Motion sickness remedies
• Smoking cessation products
• Wound care and first aid supplies

‍

‍

Medical Devices and Equipment

‍

Diagnostic tools:

‍

• Thermometers (digital, infrared, ear)
• Blood pressure monitors
• Blood glucose meters and test strips
• Pulse oximeters and heart rate monitors
• Home test kits (COVID, pregnancy, diabetes)

‍

Treatment equipment:

‍

• TENS units for pain relief
• Compression garments and supports
• Hot and cold therapy packs
• Nebulizers and breathing treatments
• Light therapy devices for medical conditions

‍

‍

Vision and Hearing Care

‍

Vision correction:

‍

• Prescription glasses and sunglasses
• Contact lenses and solutions
• Reading glasses (prescription strength)
• Computer glasses for eye strain
• Eye drops for dry eyes or allergies

‍

Eye care supplies:

‍

• Contact lens cases and cleaners
• Prescription eye patches
• Magnifying glasses for medical needs
• Eye wash solutions

‍

Hearing assistance:

‍

• Hearing aids and batteries
• Hearing protection for medical needs
• Ear wax removal products
• Ear infection treatments

‍

‍

Personal Care Items with Medical Purpose

‍

Skin and wound care:

‍

• Sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
• Acne treatments with active ingredients
• Eczema and psoriasis products
• Antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers
• Lip balm with sun protection

‍

Feminine and family health:

‍

• Feminine hygiene products
• Pregnancy tests and ovulation kits
• Baby thermometers and medicine dispensers
• Adult diapers and incontinence supplies
• Maternity support garments

‍

‍

Mobility and Accessibility Aids

‍

Mobility support:

‍

• Wheelchairs and mobility scooters
• Walkers, canes, and crutches
• Grab bars and shower seats
• Compression stockings
• Orthopedic supports and braces

‍

Daily living aids:

‍

• Raised toilet seats
• Shower chairs and bath benches
• Medication organizers and reminders
• Reachers and dressing aids
• Special utensils for arthritis or disabilities

‍

‍

Dental Care Products

‍

Oral health treatments:

‍

• Prescription fluoride treatments
• Medicated mouthwashes
• Dental night guards (custom-fitted)
• Oral pain relief gels
• Dry mouth treatments

‍

Orthodontic supplies:

‍

• Retainer cleaners
• Orthodontic wax
• Special toothbrushes for braces
• Water flossers for medical needs

‍

‍

Mental Health and Wellness

‍

Stress and anxiety management:

‍

• Meditation apps with medical focus
• Stress relief products prescribed by doctors
• Light therapy lamps for seasonal depression
• Aromatherapy for medical anxiety treatment

‍

‍

Baby and Maternity Items

‍

Infant care:

‍

• Baby formula and specialized nutritional products
• Breast pumps and supplies
• Baby thermometers and medicine droppers
• Diaper rash treatments
• Infant sleep positioning devices

‍

‍

Items Requiring Prescriptions or Documentation

‍

Supplements and vitamins:

‍

• Specific vitamins for diagnosed deficiencies
• Prenatal vitamins
• Calcium supplements for bone health
• Iron supplements for anemia
• Prescription-strength vitamins

‍

Special dietary products:

‍

• Gluten-free foods for celiac disease
• Diabetic nutritional products
• Medical foods for specific conditions
• Weight loss products prescribed by doctors

‍

‍

Smart Shopping Strategies

‍

Compare prices across retailers. The same eligible items may cost significantly different amounts at various stores. Since you're using tax-free dollars, comparison shopping maximizes your savings.

‍

Stock up during sales. Non-perishable eligible items like bandages, OTC medications, and medical supplies can be purchased in bulk during promotional events.

‍

Check store HSA/FSA sections. Many retailers now have dedicated sections for eligible products, making shopping easier and reducing errors.

‍

Use Wellness Pay's account scanning. Our technology instantly verifies which products are eligible for your specific account, eliminating guesswork and ensuring compliance.

‍

‍

What's NOT Eligible

‍

Avoid these common non-qualified items:

‍

• Cosmetics and beauty products
• General vitamins without prescriptions
• Toiletries for hygiene rather than medical treatment
• Exercise equipment for general fitness
• Organic foods unless medically necessary

‍

‍

Maximizing Your Purchases

‍

Plan for end-of-year FSA spending. Stock up on eligible items you'll eventually need if you have FSA funds expiring.

‍

Consider family needs. Remember you can use your accounts for spouse and dependent expenses, expanding your purchasing opportunities.

‍

Keep receipts organized. Maintain detailed records of all purchases for potential audits or reimbursement claims.

‍

‍

The Bottom Line

‍

Your HSA and FSA can cover hundreds of everyday health products beyond obvious medical expenses. From basic pain relievers to specialized medical equipment, understanding what's eligible helps you maximize your tax-advantaged spending.

‍

The key is focusing on products that serve medical purposes rather than general wellness or cosmetic goals. When in doubt, use tools like Wellness Pay's account scanning technology to verify eligibility before purchasing, ensuring every dollar provides maximum value while staying compliant with tax regulations.

‍

Start shopping smarter with your health savings accounts – the eligible products are everywhere once you know what to look for.