Can I buy toothpaste with my FSA?
No, toothpaste is not an FSA-approved expense. Toothpaste is considered a general health product just like a toothbrush, dental floss or mouthwash.
What is toothpaste (re: FSA)?
Toothpaste is a dental care product used in conjunction with a toothbrush to clean and maintain oral health. It typically contains fluoride and other active ingredients that help prevent tooth decay, remove plaque, and freshen breath. Toothpaste is an essential component of daily oral hygiene routines recommended by dentists and oral health professionals.
Why isn't toothpaste FSA-approved?
Despite its importance for dental health, toothpaste is classified as a "Not FSA-eligible" expense. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers toothpaste as a personal care item rather than a medical expense, making it ineligible for FSA reimbursement. As a result, the cost of purchasing toothpaste cannot be paid for using funds from your Flexible Spending Account.
Even though toothpaste is not FSA-eligible, investing in good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Regular dental check-ups, daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and maintaining a balanced diet contribute to strong and healthy oral health. A visit to the dentist can help you determine the most suitable oral care routine for your specific needs.
Is it possible for FSA rules to change to cover dental hygiene products?
Every year, the IRS updates its guidelines around FSA eligibility which over time leads to incremental expansion in FSA coverage. Daily teeth brushing with toothpaste, and flossing contribute to lowered risk of gingivitis, gum disease, and other oral disease. With a clear medical benefit, rules always have a chance of changing in the coming years.
Are there alternative FSA-approved dental care products?
While toothpaste may not be FSA-eligible, there are various other dental expenses that you can use your FSA funds for. These include dental visits, cleanings, fillings, braces, dentures, mouthguards, and certain dental treatments deemed medically necessary by a qualified healthcare professional.
Additionally, there are thousands of FSA-approved products to search and browse through on BuyFSA.com and on the BuyFSA App.
