Yes, flu shots are fully eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Flu Shots FSA/HSA Eligible?
Flu shots are preventive vaccines designed to protect against seasonal influenza. Because they are administered to prevent illness and are recommended by healthcare professionals, flu shots qualify as an eligible medical expense under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to IRS Publication 502 , vaccinations for disease prevention are considered eligible medical expenses. This includes annual flu vaccines received at clinics, pharmacies, or through employer-sponsored programs.
FSA- and HSA-eligible flu shot expenses may include:
Standard seasonal flu vaccines
Quadrivalent and high-dose flu shots
Pediatric flu shots
Flu shots administered at pharmacies, doctor’s offices, or workplace clinics
- Administration fees charged for the vaccine
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Vaccines that are not FDA-approved or medically recommended
Flu shots received purely for travel requirements without a preventive health indication
Wellness program charges that include a flu shot but are not itemized
Flu shots administered in non-medical or unlicensed settings
To qualify, the flu shot must be administered by a licensed provider and be recognized for disease prevention.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Flu Shots
You can use your FSA or HSA card at participating pharmacies, clinics, or doctor’s offices. If you pay out of pocket:
Request an itemized receipt showing the type of vaccine and date administered
Save documentation if requested by your plan administrator for reimbursement
Submit the expense through your FSA or HSA portal if necessary
For more information on eligible preventive services, refer to IRS Publication 502.
