Soap is typically not eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). However, certain antibacterial or medicated soaps may qualify when prescribed by a physician to treat a specific medical condition and supported by a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).
Why Is Soap Not FSA/HSA Eligible?
Most soaps are considered personal care products used for general hygiene and cleanliness rather than for the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. Because they are used by the general population for everyday purposes, standard soap does not qualify as medical care under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria, general hygiene items such as soap, body wash, and cleansers are excluded from FSA/HSA eligibility. Only medicated soaps or cleansers with active ingredients used to treat a medical condition may qualify.
What’s Not Covered?
Regular or moisturizing hand soaps
Bar and liquid soaps for everyday hygiene
Fragrance, beauty, or “natural” soaps without active medicinal ingredients
Body washes or cleansers marketed for cosmetic or comfort purposes
Specialty soaps sold for exfoliation or skin appearance
LMN and Exceptions
Soap may qualify for reimbursement only if it is medicated and prescribed to treat a diagnosed condition, such as:
Bacterial or fungal skin infections
Eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
Acne or other chronic dermatologic conditions
Eligible medicated soaps typically contain active medical ingredients such as:
Benzoyl peroxide
Chlorhexidine gluconate (commonly used in pre-surgical washes like Hibiclens)
Sulfur, ketoconazole, or povidone-iodine
To pursue reimbursement:
Obtain a diagnosis from your healthcare provider.
Request a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) specifying the medicated soap and the condition being treated.
Submit the LMN and purchase documentation to your FSA/HSA administrator.
Retain all receipts and physician documentation for verification.
Everyday or cosmetic soaps remain ineligible, while prescription or medically indicated cleansers may qualify with proper documentation.
