12 smart ways to use your healthcare FSA dollars

As January 1 approaches, many people are thinking about New Year’s resolutions or holiday get-togethers. But there’s one more (important) item to add to your end-of-year list: your healthcare flexible spending account (FSA).

If you have dollars left in your FSA, now is the time to use them. Unless your employer offers an extension, you will lose your leftover FSA money on December 31.

Are you unsure how to spend your FSA dollars? These ideas can help you put your healthcare funds to good use.

What is a healthcare FSA?

Your health FSA is an account that contains pre-tax money put aside for medical costs. You can save up to 30% off healthcare services and products using FSA dollars instead of paying out of pocket. 

Some employers put money into your FSA. Others offer an FSA that you contribute to. Either way, your FSA money is a “use it or lose it” situation. Your employer sets a deadline for you to use your FSA money. Your deadline may be December 31 or, at the latest, March 15 of next year.

Ways to spend your FSA money

Your healthcare FSA is a great resource for stocking up on medical supplies or squeezing in a doctor’s visit before the new year arrives. However, eligible expenses can vary depending on what your employer allows. Before making purchases with your FSA, check with your human resources department or FSA website to be sure it’s covered.

If you need some inspiration to use up your FSA dollars, consider these ideas:

1. Healthcare visits

Whether in-person or via telehealth, seeing your healthcare provider is essential to staying healthy. But in many cases, your health insurance does not fully cover the costs of sick visits, medical tests, emergency room and urgent care visits and specialist care. Use your FSA to cover these costs when illnesses and emergencies come up.

2. Prescription medications

If you take prescriptions, get them refilled before the end of the year using your FSA funds. Depending on your medication and health conditions, you may need to see your provider before getting more medicine. In other cases, they may send your refill directly to your pharmacy.

3. Vision care

Haven’t seen your optometrist or ophthalmologist in a while? Schedule a visit and use your FSA funds to pay for uncovered costs. You can also use your FSA dollars to purchase new glasses, contact lenses and contact lens solution.

4. Dental care

A healthy mouth is essential for your overall health. Don’t let costs keep you from getting the dental care you need. Your FSA usually covers fillings, root canals and other procedures.

5. Hearing aids

New hearing aids are an eligible purchase on most FSAs. Make an appointment with an audiologist to get started.

6. Over-the-counter medications

Keep your medicine cabinet stocked with supplies for minor illnesses. Most everything you buy at a pharmacy, including pain relievers, allergy medications, cough syrup and stomach remedies, is FSA-eligible.

7. First aid supplies

Bandages and antibiotic ointment are essential for everyday cuts and scrapes, and most FSAs will cover them. Consider purchasing a first-aid kit for your vehicle so you have these and other supplies on hand when you’re away from home.

8. Skin care products

Whether you’re dealing with acne breakouts, dry skin or eczema, your FSA can help. You can use your funds to purchase certain skin cleansers, creams and acne treatments. And don’t forget your SPF. Many sunscreen products are eligible for reimbursement through your FSA.

Not all skin products are FSA-eligible, though. Basic lotions, cleansers and cosmetics do not qualify as healthcare expenses because they’re not treating a medical condition.

9. Menstrual products

Tampons, pads and some period underwear are eligible FSA expenses. If you menstruate and have FSA money left, consider stocking up on supplies you’ll need over the next several months.

10. Pain relief devices

Heating pads can bring welcome relief for menstrual cramps, back pain and everyday muscle strains. Other devices that help relieve back and neck tension are also eligible for purchase through an FSA.

11. Smoking cessation

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. Inova’s Smoking Cessation Program is FSA-eligible, as well as nicotine patches and gum.

12. Diabetic supplies

Good diabetes management will help you avoid complications like heart disease, vision loss and nerve problems. Purchase diabetic test strips, lancets, a meter and sharps containers with your FSA. See your provider regularly to be sure the disease is under good control.

Where to purchase FSA items

You can purchase FSA products at local pharmacies and stores. Another option is online FSA stores, such as:

• Amazon FSA Store
• CVS HSA/FSA Store
• Target FSA & HSA Shop
• Walgreens FSA/HSA Store
• Walmart FSA & HSA Shop

Don’t put off your health

Your health is important every day, so don’t wait to get the care you need. Now is the time to think about upcoming well visits for your children or a checkup for yourself. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or find an Inova doctor who fits your needs. Our team is here to help you live a healthy life — into the new year and beyond.