Yes, glasses are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). They qualify as medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d) because they are essential for correcting vision and addressing eye health issues.
Why Are Glasses FSA/HSA Eligible?
Glasses are FSA/HSA eligible because they are considered medical devices that correct vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The IRS guidelines classify expenses for products that diagnose, treat, or correct a medical condition as reimbursable. Prescription eyeglasses directly align with these requirements, as they improve eyesight and are prescribed by licensed optometrists or ophthalmologists.
In addition, related products such as prescription sunglasses, lens coatings for Rx glasses (like anti-glare or blue-light blocking), and repair kits for glasses may also qualify for reimbursement when used for medical purposes.
How to Purchase Glasses With a FSA/HSA
To buy your glasses through your Flexible Spending or Health Savings Account, you will need your FSA/HSA card. You can swipe the card at the optometrist’s clinic or use your card details through their online portal to pay directly to your FSA or HSA account.
You can also pay out of pocket and request a reimbursement from your FSA or HSA provider. You must submit the card/cash payment receipt to your provider to achieve this. Make sure the receipt clearly states the following information:
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
