Yes, telehealth services are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) when used to diagnose, treat, or manage a medical condition.
Why Is Telehealth FSA/HSA Eligible?
Telehealth—also referred to as telemedicine—allows patients to consult with healthcare providers virtually, often through video or phone calls. These services are eligible under IRS Code Section 213(d), which allows for the reimbursement of medical care that includes the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease.
IRS Publication 502 affirms that medical services provided by licensed professionals are reimbursable, regardless of whether they occur in person or via telehealth, as long as the services are medically necessary.
FSA- and HSA-eligible telehealth expenses may include:
Primary care and specialist consultations
Mental health therapy and psychiatry visits
Dermatology, allergy, and chronic condition management
Prescription refills and medication consultations
- Virtual urgent care or triage services
What’s Not Covered?
The following telehealth services are not eligible:
General wellness, life coaching, or informational calls not tied to a medical diagnosis
Services provided by non-licensed practitioners
Subscription fees for platforms that do not include access to eligible healthcare services
Cosmetic or elective consultations that are not medically necessary
To qualify, the telehealth service must be conducted by a licensed provider and focus on a valid medical need.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Telehealth
To use your FSA or HSA for telehealth:
Pay with your FSA or HSA card when booking or during the visit
Ensure the provider is licensed and the consultation addresses a specific medical concern
Request an itemized receipt that includes the provider’s name, date of service, and purpose of the visit
Retain documentation in case your plan administrator requests verification
For full guidance, consult IRS Publication 502.
