As the end of the year approaches, you likely had (or are about to have) open enrollment. Hopefully you’ve taken advantage of some of the pre-tax benefits available to you, like contributing to an FSA or HSA. We shared the perks of an HSA, and now it’s time to share some things you can buy with your HSA.
Since your FSA and HSA are designed to help you save money on health and medical expenses by using pre-tax income to pay for them, you can use this to your advantage. Outside of the copays and prescriptions, the CGS Team is sharing 7 things you can buy with your HSA or FSA so you can keep a little more money in your pocket.
Things you can buy with your HSA…
#1 Acupuncture
If you’ve always wanted to try alternative medicine, why not use your pre-tax funds to give it a shot? Considering how most insurance plans don’t cover acupuncture treatments, using your HSA is a great alternative. To find an acupuncturist near you, check out the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture.
#2 Sunscreen
Sure, sunscreen may not break the budget, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay for it tax-free! Sunscreen is an approved expense that can come out of your HSA money. If you plan on living at the pool or beach during the summer seasons, stock up now!
#3 Glasses and Contacts
It’s not cheap to take care of your eyes! That’s where an HSA can really make a difference on the expenses that come out of your pocket. Your HSA funds can pay for glasses, contacts, saline solution, eye drops, and cleaning kits.
#4 Prenatal Vitamins and Supplies
Having a baby isn’t always the best on your budget, but luckily your HSA can help cover the load. Prenatal vitamins, and breastfeeding supplies like nursing pads, nipple shields, and a breast pump (if not covered by your insurance already) are expenses you can use your HSA to pay for.
#5 Condoms and Pregnancy Tests
Whether you are trying to get pregnant or actively working to ensure pregnancy doesn’t happen, some of the costs can be covered by your HSA. Condoms and pregnancy tests are both items that can be purchased with your HSA.
#6 Relaxation Tools
Unfortunately, a spa day is not on the approved list of expenses your HSA can cover, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have your own DIY relaxation! Aromatherapy masks, hot and cold eye masks, acupressure mats, and foot massagers are all expenses that can be funded by your HSA.
#7 Lasik Surgery
Unless you have vision coverage, your lasik surgery may not be covered by your health insurance. Thankfully, corrective eye surgery can come out of your HSA funds.
Related: Surprising Expenses Your Insurance May Cover
It’s time to get financially savvy with your medical and health expenses! Don’t rely on insurance to cover costs, because they may not do so! Contributing to an HSA or FSA is a great way to put money aside for the health costs that come up throughout the year…and trust us, they do! What do you use your HSA or FSA funds for? Are there specific expenses you use the benefits for? Leave a comment below to share.
