Yes, food sensitivity testing is generally eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), especially when it’s used to diagnose or manage a specific medical condition.
Why Is Food Sensitivity Testing FSA/HSA Eligible?
Food sensitivity testing evaluates how your body reacts to certain foods, often by measuring antibody or inflammatory responses. These tests are frequently used to help identify underlying causes of chronic digestive issues, autoimmune flare-ups, migraines, skin conditions, or other symptoms that may be triggered by food.
Under IRS Code Section 213(d), diagnostic tests qualify as medical expenses if they are used to diagnose or treat a condition. According to IRS Publication 502, expenses for medical testing are eligible, which includes food sensitivity testing when it is used as part of medical evaluation or treatment.
FSA- and HSA-eligible food sensitivity testing may include:
Tests ordered or recommended by a licensed healthcare provider
Lab-based or clinical tests used to investigate digestive or inflammatory symptoms
At-home test kits recognized for clinical use (e.g., tests measuring IgG/IgA reactivity or MRT-based tests)
- Testing that supports a treatment plan for conditions like IBS, autoimmune disorders, migraines, or chronic fatigue
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Tests marketed solely for general wellness, weight loss, or curiosity
Non-clinical food “intolerance” or “matching” tests without scientific validation
DNA-based or lifestyle food tests that aren’t used in medical evaluation
Tests not related to a specific medical condition or used without clinical guidance
To qualify, the test should be part of a medically driven diagnostic process and used to inform treatment for a health concern—not general dietary preference.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Food Sensitivity Testing
You can use your FSA or HSA card to purchase eligible test kits or pay for in-office testing. If you pay out of pocket:
Save an itemized receipt showing the test provider, date, and type of testing
If ordered by a provider, retain documentation of the medical purpose for the test (e.g., for reimbursement verification)
Submit through your FSA or HSA administrator if needed
For more information, refer to IRS Publication 502.
