Yes, orthopedic and surgical supports are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Orthopedic and Surgical Supports FSA/HSA Eligible?
Orthopedic and surgical supports are used to stabilize, protect, or aid in the recovery of joints, bones, and muscles following injury, surgery, or as part of a treatment plan for a chronic condition. Because these products are designed to treat or manage medical issues such as sprains, fractures, arthritis, or post-operative recovery, they qualify as eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria, orthopedic and surgical supports are fully FSA- and HSA-eligible when used for a medical purpose.
FSA- and HSA-eligible orthopedic and surgical supports include:
Joint braces and stabilizers (e.g., knee, wrist, thumb, ankle, elbow, shoulder)
Post-surgical compression garments and wraps
Cervical neck braces or collars
Back support belts
Walking boots and post-op shoes
Immobilizers and slings
Finger splints and toe separators used to treat injuries
Abdominal binders or hernia belts prescribed for recovery
These products do not require a prescription but must be used to support recovery or treatment of a diagnosed medical condition.
What’s Not Covered?
Orthopedic or support products marketed solely for posture correction, cosmetic shaping, or general comfort are not eligible. This includes:
Fitness or weightlifting braces without medical indication
Posture correctors not tied to a diagnosed condition
Shapewear or compression garments marketed for slimming or aesthetic purposes
Athletic braces marketed for performance or injury prevention only
To qualify, the product must be labeled and marketed for therapeutic, post-surgical, or rehabilitative use.
How to Buy Orthopedic and Surgical Supports with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase orthopedic and surgical supports 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)
Make sure the product is labeled for medical, orthopedic, or post-surgical use
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid items labeled for comfort, aesthetic, or athletic performance purposes only
For more details, see the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria.
