Yes, prenatal vitamins are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). These supplements play a vital role in supporting a healthy pregnancy and are considered an eligible medical expense under IRS Code Section 213(d).
Why Are Prenatal Vitamins FSA/HSA Eligible?
Prenatal vitamins are FSA/HSA eligible because they are specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of pregnancy, making them different from regular adult multivitamins. They contain higher levels of folic acid to support fetal neural tube development, iron to prevent anemia, and DHA for baby’s brain and eye health. Unlike standard multivitamins, they are tailored to ensure both the mother and baby receive essential nutrients critical for a healthy pregnancy, reducing the risk of birth defects and supporting overall maternal health.
The IRS and SIGIS guidelines classify prenatal vitamins as a reimbursable medical expense because they directly contribute to the prevention of medical conditions, such as neural tube defects, by ensuring proper nutrition during pregnancy. While most prenatal vitamins are covered, always confirm eligibility with your FSA/HSA provider, as some supplements marketed for general wellness may require a letter of medical necessity.
How to Purchase Prenatal Vitamins With a FSA/HSA
You can buy FSA/HSA eligible prenatal vitamins directly through your FSA or HSA account by browsing the buyFSA.com website or mobile app. Once you have found the vitamins you need, click the add to cart button and proceed to the checkout page. Here, you will be prompted to enter your card details. You can enter your FSA/HSA card information in the boxes provided to charge the purchase directly to your flexible spending or health savings account.
If you prefer to pay out of pocket or are having trouble checking out with your FSA/HSA card, enter your regular credit card details instead. You can always request a reimbursement from your provider later by sending them a receipt with 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 Pregnancy Items Are FSA/HSA Eligible?
In addition to prenatal vitamins, several other pregnancy-related items are FSA/HSA eligible, including:
Pregnancy Tests: Diagnostic tools used to confirm pregnancy.
Ovulation Kits: Tests designed to track ovulation for conception planning.
Maternity Support Belts: Devices used to provide abdominal and back support during pregnancy.
Breast Pumps and Accessories: Equipment used for breastfeeding and milk storage.
Compression Stockings: Hosiery designed to alleviate swelling and improve circulation during pregnancy.
Always confirm eligibility with your FSA/HSA provider, as some items may require a letter of medical necessity for reimbursement.
