Yes, canker sore treatment is eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), as long as the product contains an active medicinal ingredient used to relieve or treat the condition.
Why Is Canker Sore Treatment FSA/HSA Eligible?
Canker sores—also known as aphthous ulcers—are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. Products used to treat these sores qualify as eligible medical expenses when they are formulated with active medicinal ingredients and are marketed for therapeutic use.
According to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria, over-the-counter treatments are eligible when they are intended to treat a medical condition and contain an active ingredient recognized for therapeutic benefit.
FSA- and HSA-eligible canker sore treatments typically include:
Oral gels or creams containing benzocaine (e.g., Orajel™, Anbesol™)
Rinses with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide for disinfecting ulcers
Medicated patches or films that form a protective barrier over the sore
Antiseptic mouthwashes labeled for mouth ulcer or sore treatment
Prescription-strength options when medically necessary
These products are eligible when they are used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, or promote healing of active sores.
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Products marketed for cosmetic oral care, such as whitening or breath freshening
Herbal or natural remedies that do not include an active medicinal ingredient
Toothpastes or rinses without a clear treatment indication for canker sores
Supplements or homeopathic options that do not meet drug classification standards
To qualify, the product must be marketed specifically for canker sore treatment and contain an approved active ingredient.
How to Buy Canker Sore Treatment with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase eligible canker sore treatments directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is verified as FSA- and HSA-eligible, so you can shop with confidence.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Confirm the product is labeled for treating canker sores and includes an active ingredient
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid products labeled for general comfort or cosmetic use without a therapeutic claim
For more information, refer to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria.
