Yes, menstrual pads are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Are All Menstrual Pads FSA/HSA Eligible?
Yes, all menstrual pads are FSA/HSA eligible as long as they are used for menstrual care purposes. This includes a variety of styles and brands, such as regular pads, ultra-thin pads, overnight pads, and organic options. However, if a pad product includes additional features marketed for purposes other than menstrual care, such as purely cosmetic attributes, eligibility might require verification with your FSA/HSA provider. Keep itemized receipts to ensure smooth reimbursement if required.
Why Are Menstrual Pads FSA/HSA Eligible?
Menstrual pads are FSA/HSA eligible due to the CARES Act of 2020, which expanded the list of eligible over-the-counter products to include menstrual care items. Pads, along with tampons, liners, and other similar products, are recognized as necessary for menstrual health and hygiene. As such, they qualify as medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d).
How to Purchase Pads With an FSA/HSA
You can start shopping now that you know the answer to "Are pads FSA/HSA eligible?" is yes. It's easy to use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) card to buy pads. Using either the buyFSA.com online store or the buyFSA app, find the pads you want to purchase and select add to cart. When ready, click Checkout and enter your FSA or HSA card information on the next screen. Once you submit the order and the transaction processes, the money will automatically be debited from your FSA or HSA.
Are sanitary pads FSA eligible? Yes, and you may also purchase them out of pocket using an alternative payment option, such as a personal credit. Enter your credit card details at checkout instead of your FSA/HSA card information. You may then request a reimbursement from your FSA/HSA provider using the order confirmation and the receipt. Receipts must contain the following information for reimbursement:
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 buying items at a retailer that doesn't accept FSA cards or if using a regular credit card)
Total amount of purchase
