FAQ: Can I use my FSA/HSA on glasses?
Prescription eyeglasses are eligible for reimbursement through flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA). You can also get your money back if you are enrolled in a health reimbursement account (HRA) and a limited care flexible spending account (LCFSA).
Prescription eyewear is not eligible for reimbursement under a dependent care flexible spending account — a pre-tax account used to pay for eligible dependent care services.
To be eligible for reimbursement, eyeglasses must be used to correct vision problems and/or be designed to treat a specific medical condition. See an eye doctor to get your most up-to-date prescription.
Which vision care expenses are FSA/HSA eligible?
Aside from prescription eyeglasses, other eligible vision expenses include:
Contact lenses
Prescription sunglasses
Eye care co-pays and deductibles
Routine eye exams
Reading eyeglasses are also covered under an FSA and HSA. Reading eyeglasses are not designed to correct vision problems, and unlike prescription eyeglasses, are not designed for full-time use. Reading eyeglasses also can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription.
Check your company’s FSA policy with your account administrator to verify what is eligible for reimbursement.
Where can you use your FSA or HSA dollars to buy glasses?
HSA and FSA funds can be used at retailers (online or brick-and-mortar) that sell prescription eyeglasses, prescription sunglasses and prescription contact lenses.
Some retailers accept payment via HSA and FSA cards, but if this is not an option or if you don’t have your card at the time of purchase, you can apply for reimbursement with your provider.
It’s worth noting that Walmart specifically does not accept HSA or FSA cards as payment, so you will need to pay for any qualifying purchases with a regular debit or credit card and send your receipt to your provider for reimbursement.
What are the FSA and HSA contribution limits for 2021?
In 2021, employees can contribute up to $2,750 annually to their FSA.
The contribution limit is $3,600 for self-only HSAs, and $7,200 for family HSAs. Those 55 and older can contribute up to an additional $1,000.
Both FSA and HSA contributions can be used for vision care and other overall health care needs.
SEE RELATED: How do I contribute to my FSA?
SEE RELATED: Can I use my FSA/HSA on non-prescription glasses?
Page published on Wednesday, September 18, 2019
