Yes, many bandages are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). Bandages are considered medical supplies under IRS Code Section 213(d) because they are used to protect wounds, prevent infection, and promote healing, which qualifies them as eligible medical expenses.
Which Bandages Are FSA/HSA Eligible?
FSA/HSA-eligible bandages include a wide range of products designed for medical care. Examples include:
Adhesive Bandages : Standard bandages like Band-Aid strips used to cover minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters.
Medicated Bandages : Bandages infused with antibiotic ointments or wound-healing solutions.
Specialized Bandages : Products designed for specific medical needs, such as hydrocolloid bandages for burns or blisters, and waterproof or flexible bandages for areas requiring extra durability.
Gauze and Wound Dressings : Sterile gauze pads, rolls, or dressings for larger or more severe wounds.
Liquid Bandages : Solutions that form a protective film over wounds, offering an alternative to traditional adhesive bandages.
Bandages marketed solely for cosmetic purposes, such as novelty or decorative bandages, may not qualify unless explicitly used for medical purposes.
How to Purchase Bandages With an FSA/HSA
You can readily purchase FSA/HSA eligible bandages with your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) funds. You can opt to pay directly with your FSA/HSA card or pay via credit card and request reimbursement afterward.
Browse the buyFSA online store and select the bandage you wish to purchase. Click on the add to cart and buy it now buttons and enter your FSA/HSA details. The purchase will be deducted directly from your FSA/HSA.
To pay out of pocket when you don’t have an FSA/HSA card, enter your credit card details at checkout and send the payment receipt to your provider. For successful reimbursement, all receipts must contain the information below:
Name of the provider
Date of purchase or service rendered (note that services must be rendered within the plan year for FSAs)
Description of items/services rendered
Itemized list of products purchased with UPCs (if purchasing items at a retailer that doesn’t accept FSA/HSA cards or if using a regular credit card)
Total amount of purchase
