No, magnesium is not a universally eligible Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) expense. However, you may still be able to buy it if you have a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).
Why Is Magnesium Not FSA/HSA Eligible?
Magnesium supplements are primarily marketed for general wellness purposes, such as supporting muscle function, bone health, or preventing deficiencies. These uses do not meet the criteria for medical necessity under IRS and SIGIS guidelines. To qualify as a reimbursable expense, the product must address a specific medical condition, and the expense must pass the "but for" test, meaning the supplement would not have been purchased "but for" the diagnosed condition.
Exceptions may apply if magnesium is recommended by a healthcare provider as part of a treatment plan for conditions such as hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, electrolyte imbalances, or cardiac arrhythmias. In such cases, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) is required to document its medical purpose and support its eligibility for reimbursement.
Buying Magnesium With FSA/HSA Reimbursement
If your healthcare provider determines that magnesium supplementation is medically necessary, follow these steps to use your FSA or HSA funds:
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Obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN):
Consult your healthcare provider about your condition and the necessity of magnesium supplementation.
Request an LMN specifying the diagnosis, medical need for magnesium, and its role in your treatment plan.
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Confirm Eligibility:
Submit the LMN to your FSA/HSA administrator to confirm approval before purchasing magnesium.
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Purchase the Supplement:
Use your FSA/HSA card to buy magnesium from a retailer that accepts these payment methods.
If paying out-of-pocket, retain your receipt for reimbursement.
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Submit a Reimbursement Claim:
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Provide the LMN and receipt to your FSA/HSA provider, ensuring the receipt includes:
Provider's name.
Date of purchase or service (must be within the FSA plan year).
Description of the product purchased.
Itemized list with UPCs, if applicable.
Total purchase amount.
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Maintain Documentation:
Retain copies of all documentation for your records in case additional verification is needed.
By adhering to SIGIS guidelines and obtaining proper documentation, you can ensure compliance and successfully use your FSA/HSA funds for magnesium supplements when medically necessary. Always confirm eligibility with your provider before making a purchase.
What Supplements Are Always FSA/HSA Eligible?
Certain supplements are always eligible for FSA/HSA reimbursement without the need for a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) because they serve specific medical purposes and meet IRS and SIGIS guidelines. These include:
Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Commonly used to manage joint pain or arthritis.
Fiber Laxatives: Bulk-forming fiber products such as psyllium or methylcellulose, used to treat constipation or other bowel-related conditions.
Prenatal Vitamins: Essential for supporting maternal and fetal health during pregnancy.
All other dietary supplements, including general multivitamins, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids, are classified as dual-purpose and require an LMN to be eligible for reimbursement.
