Yes, support braces are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Support Braces FSA/HSA Eligible?
Support braces are used to treat, stabilize, or manage musculoskeletal injuries and conditions such as sprains, arthritis, tendonitis, joint instability, or post-surgical recovery. According to IRS Code Section 213(d), medical devices that are used to alleviate or treat a diagnosed medical condition qualify as eligible medical expenses.
Support braces are considered durable medical equipment (DME) and are FSA- and HSA-eligible whether used for short-term injury recovery or ongoing treatment of a chronic condition. No prescription is required for most over-the-counter braces.
FSA- and HSA-eligible support braces include:
Knee braces (hinged, compression, post-op)
Ankle braces and stabilizers
Back braces or lumbar support belts
These products are eligible as long as they are used for medical support and not simply for athletic performance or injury prevention without an existing condition.
What’s Not Covered?
Braces or wraps that are marketed solely for general fitness, sports enhancement, or posture improvement may not qualify unless used to treat a specific injury or medical diagnosis. For example, compression sleeves sold for comfort or performance (rather than treatment) are not always eligible.
Custom or specialized braces may also require a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) if they include features that go beyond standard therapeutic use.
How to Buy Support Braces with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase support braces 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)
Ensure the product is labeled for injury treatment or joint support
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid performance-only gear not intended for medical treatment
