Yes, breast pumps are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Breast Pumps FSA/HSA Eligible?
Breast pumps qualify for reimbursement through a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) because they serve a specific medical purpose and are classified as durable medical equipment.
According to IRS guidelines, medical expenses for items used to manage, treat, or address a health condition qualify as eligible. Breast pumps facilitate breastfeeding, which is a medically recognized method of feeding infants, and are often essential for nursing mothers who experience difficulties with direct breastfeeding or need to maintain milk supply.
Breast pumps are particularly beneficial for addressing medical concerns such as mastitis, engorgement, or low milk supply. They are also commonly recommended by healthcare providers to support mothers in providing breast milk when returning to work or in cases where infants have difficulty latching.
The inclusion of breast pumps in FSA/HSA eligibility recognizes their role as a medical necessity rather than a general wellness product. Accessories related to breast pumps, such as storage bags, replacement parts, and nursing pads designed for managing breastfeeding-related issues, may also be eligible for reimbursement, provided they meet the criteria outlined by FSA/HSA guidelines.
How to Purchase a Breast Pump With an FSA/HSA
Browse breast pumps on the buyFSA.com online store or mobile app to find a breast pump you like. Once you’ve found the one, click add to cart to add the product to your shopping cart. Click checkout to pay for it using your FSA/HSA. All you have to do is enter your FSA/HSA card details in the boxes provided on the checkout page.
If the card doesn’t work, you can always pay out of pocket and request a reimbursement later. You will need to send your provider a copy of the receipt so they can process the reimbursement. Always check that the receipt contains the following details:
Name of the provider
Date of purchase/service rendered (note that for services, they 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
What Other Postpartum Items are FSA/HSA Eligible?
Along with breast pumps, a variety of other postpartum items are also eligible for purchase with your FSA or HSA funds. These generally include products that support maternal health and recovery during the postpartum period. Some common FSA/HSA-eligible postpartum items include:
Nursing pads: These absorbent pads are placed inside the bra to prevent breast milk leakage.
Nipple shields: These soft, flexible covers protect sore or cracked nipples during breastfeeding.
Nipple creams: These creams soothe and heal sore or cracked nipples.
Postpartum belly wraps or binders: These supportive garments provide compression and support to the abdominal area, aiding in muscle recovery and reducing swelling.
Perineal cold packs: These cold packs provide relief from pain and swelling in the perineal area after childbirth.
Hemorrhoid creams or pads: These products offer relief from hemorrhoids, a common postpartum condition.
It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on your FSA or HSA provider. Always check with your plan administrator or consult the official IRS guidelines for the most up-to-date information on eligible medical expenses.
