Yes, speech therapy is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) when it is used to treat a diagnosed medical condition or developmental disorder.
Why Is Speech Therapy FSA/HSA Eligible?
Speech therapy is considered a qualified medical expense under IRS Code Section 213(d) when prescribed to treat a specific condition. It is commonly used to address speech, language, voice, or communication disorders caused by developmental delays, neurological injuries, stroke, autism, cleft palate, or other health conditions.
According to IRS Publication 502, therapy received as part of medical treatment is eligible for reimbursement. This includes speech-language pathology services provided by a licensed therapist, either as part of a rehabilitation plan or a developmental support program.
FSA- and HSA-eligible speech therapy expenses may include:
Evaluation and treatment sessions by a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP)
Therapy for speech delays, articulation issues, stuttering, or swallowing disorders
Speech rehabilitation after a stroke or brain injury
Treatment related to autism spectrum disorder or neurological conditions
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Educational or tutoring services unrelated to a medical diagnosis
Therapy for non-medical purposes, such as accent modification or elective communication coaching
Services not provided by a licensed medical professional
Programs or software used without a medical recommendation
Speech therapy must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and used to treat a condition affecting the function of the body.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Speech Therapy
To pay for speech therapy with your FSA or HSA:
Use your FSA/HSA card at the time of service, if accepted
Request itemized documentation from your therapist, including diagnosis and service dates
Ensure the provider is licensed and the therapy is medically necessary
If you're submitting for reimbursement, keep all documentation showing the condition being treated and the therapy provided.
For additional information, refer to IRS Publication 502.
