Yes, knee braces are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Knee Braces FSA/HSA Eligible?
Knee braces are used to treat and manage medical conditions such as ligament injuries, arthritis, post-surgical recovery, meniscus tears, patellar tracking issues, and general joint instability. According to IRS Code Section 213(d), medical devices used to diagnose, treat, or alleviate a physical condition are considered qualified medical expenses.
Because knee braces are classified as durable medical equipment (DME) and are used to treat a diagnosable condition, they are eligible for reimbursement through an FSA or HSA. No prescription or Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) is required for most over-the-counter braces.
FSA- and HSA-eligible knee braces include:
Hinged knee braces
Compression knee sleeves (for injury recovery or arthritis)
Post-operative braces
Wraparound or adjustable braces
Patella stabilizers or immobilizers
These products are eligible when used for medical purposes—not just general athletic performance or preventive support.
What’s Not Covered?
Knee sleeves or compression gear marketed only for athletic performance, general support, or comfort may not qualify unless tied to a diagnosed medical condition. Braces worn strictly for posture correction or to prevent potential injury without an existing issue are typically not eligible.
If a brace includes non-medical features (such as tech-enhanced fitness tracking), only the portion related to medical support may qualify.
How to Buy Knee Braces with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase knee braces directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Make sure the product is labeled for medical use, injury treatment, or joint support
Save your receipt in case your benefits provider requests documentation
Avoid athletic gear marketed only for fitness performance without a medical use case
