Yes, Claritin is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Savings Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Is Claritin FSA/HSA Eligible?
Claritin is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) because it is specifically designed to treat allergy-related symptoms, which are recognized as qualifying medical conditions under IRS guidelines. The active ingredient in Claritin, loratadine, is a non-drowsy antihistamine that works by blocking histamines—chemical compounds in the body that trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
IRS Code Section 213(d) specifies that medical expenses for products used to diagnose, treat, or alleviate a medical condition are eligible for reimbursement. Claritin meets these criteria as it provides targeted relief for seasonal and perennial allergies, including hay fever and other allergic rhinitis symptoms. Unlike products aimed at general wellness, Claritin is explicitly formulated to manage a diagnosed condition, ensuring its classification as an essential medical expense.
How to Buy Claritin With an FSA/HSA
Order Claritin online at buyFSA or in the buyFSA app. Search for the product, then add it to your cart by clicking the shopping cart icon below the product image. To pay, select the shopping bag icon in the top right-hand corner.
Once in your cart, check your order by reviewing the products and prices displayed. To complete payment, click checkout. You’ll need to fill in your contact and delivery details and supply your FSA/HSA card information. Click pay now (FSA/HSA).
Another option is to make an out-of-pocket payment using your credit card and then claim reimbursement. Follow the same procedure to provide your regular credit card details and upload your receipt to submit to your FSA/HSA provider. To help ensure a successful claim, include the following on your receipt:
Name of the provider
Date of purchase or service rendered (the services rendered must be within the FSA’s plan year)
Description of items/services rendered
Itemized list of products purchased with UPCs (if procuring items at a retailer that doesn’t accept FSA cards or if using a regular credit card)
Total amount of purchase
What Other Allergy Medicine Is FSA/HSA Eligible?
Besides Claritin, various other allergy medicines are also eligible for reimbursement with an FSA or HSA. These include popular brands like:
Allegra (fexofenadine): Non-drowsy antihistamine for relief of seasonal allergy symptoms.
Benadryl (diphenhydramine): Antihistamine for relief of allergy and cold symptoms, but may cause drowsiness.
Zyrtec (cetirizine): Non-drowsy antihistamine for relief of indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms.
Xyzal (levocetirizine): Non-drowsy antihistamine for relief of allergy symptoms.
Nasacort (triamcinolone): Nasal spray for relief of nasal allergy symptoms.
Flonase (fluticasone): Nasal spray for relief of nasal allergy symptoms.
This is not an exhaustive list, and other allergy medications may also be eligible. It is always recommended to check with your FSA/HSA provider or consult the IRS guidelines for the most up-to-date information on eligible medical expenses.
