Yes, ear drops and ear wax removal products are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Ear Drops and Wax Removal Products FSA/HSA Eligible?
Ear drops and wax removal solutions are used to treat minor ear-related medical conditions such as wax buildup, dryness, itching, or temporary discomfort. These products are considered over-the-counter treatments for specific, diagnosable medical issues and therefore qualify as eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria, ear care products marketed to treat a medical condition—such as ear wax buildup—are FSA- and HSA-eligible without a prescription.
FSA- and HSA-eligible ear care products include:
Ear drops for wax softening or removal
Over-the-counter carbamide peroxide drops (e.g., Debrox)
Ear irrigation kits labeled for medical ear wax removal
Dry ear drops for moisture removal after swimming
Ear pain relief drops labeled for use during cold or flu symptoms
These products are eligible when used for a therapeutic purpose and marketed as treatment, not general hygiene.
What’s Not Covered?
Products that are marketed for general ear hygiene, cosmetic cleansing, or comfort-only use are not eligible. This includes:
Cotton swabs or ear picks
Non-medicated ear cleaning tools
Ear drops without a treatment indication
Aromatherapy or home-use oils without a labeled medical purpose
To qualify, the item must be sold and labeled for use in treating ear wax buildup, pain, or related symptoms.
How to Buy Ear Drops and Wax Removal Products with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase eligible ear care products directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Choose products labeled for wax removal, ear pain, or therapeutic ear care
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid cosmetic or general-use products not labeled for medical treatment
For more information, visit the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria .
