Yes, chelation therapy is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) when it is performed to treat a diagnosed medical condition such as heavy metal poisoning.
Why Is Chelation Therapy FSA/HSA Eligible?
Chelation therapy is a medical treatment that involves the administration of chelating agents to remove heavy metals (such as lead, mercury, arsenic, or iron) from the bloodstream. When performed to treat a medically recognized condition—such as heavy metal toxicity or iron overload disorders—chelation therapy qualifies as an eligible medical expense under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to IRS Publication 502, eligible medical expenses include treatments provided to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental defect or illness. This includes chelation therapy when used to treat a toxic exposure or related diagnosis, as prescribed and administered by a licensed healthcare provider.
FSA- and HSA-eligible chelation expenses may include:
In-office chelation therapy sessions
Chelating agents (e.g., EDTA, DMSA) administered as part of the treatment
Pre-treatment lab work or diagnostic testing
Follow-up blood work to monitor metal levels
Provider fees associated with treatment
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Chelation therapy for unapproved or alternative purposes (e.g., anti-aging, cardiovascular prevention without diagnosis)
Non-prescription oral supplements or chelation products sold over the counter
Experimental or non-FDA-approved chelation protocols not performed under licensed medical supervision
Chelation services obtained through wellness spas or non-clinical environments
To qualify, chelation therapy must be used to treat a recognized medical condition and performed or supervised by a qualified healthcare provider.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Chelation Therapy
You can use your FSA or HSA to pay for eligible chelation therapy directly at the time of service or submit receipts for reimbursement. Be sure to:
Use a licensed medical provider or facility
Save itemized receipts or invoices showing treatment type and date
Keep documentation of diagnosis and medical necessity in case your plan administrator requires verification
For more information, refer to IRS Publication 502.
