Yes, cryotherapy is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) when used to treat a diagnosed medical condition.
Why Is Cryotherapy FSA/HSA Eligible?
Cryotherapy is a medical treatment that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue and is commonly used to treat conditions such as warts, skin tags, and precancerous lesions. It may also be used in certain cases to relieve chronic pain or inflammation. When performed by a licensed healthcare provider for a medical reason, cryotherapy qualifies as an eligible medical expense under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to IRS Publication 502, treatments intended to alleviate or prevent a physical defect or illness are eligible for FSA and HSA reimbursement.
FSA- and HSA-eligible cryotherapy services may include:
In-office cryotherapy for dermatologic conditions
Cryosurgery for removal of abnormal or precancerous tissue
Medically directed cryotherapy for joint or muscle pain
Related follow-up visits or wound care
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Whole-body cryotherapy specifically for general wellness, muscle recovery, or athletic performance
Spa-based or boutique cryotherapy sessions not tied to a medical treatment plan
Cosmetic cryotherapy services for aesthetic skin improvement
Over-the-counter cryotherapy tools marketed for cosmetic use
To qualify, cryotherapy must be used to treat a specific medical condition and performed in a clinical or medical setting.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Cryotherapy
You can use your FSA or HSA card to pay directly for cryotherapy services in eligible medical facilities. If paying out of pocket:
Request an itemized receipt or invoice showing the type of treatment and date of service
Submit the receipt through your FSA or HSA provider’s reimbursement portal if needed
For more information on eligible medical procedures, refer to IRS Publication 502.
