The eligibility of scales for reimbursement through a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) depends on the type of scale and its intended use.
Body composition scales, which measure metrics like body fat percentage, muscle mass, and hydration levels, are universally FSA/HSA eligible because they provide health insights valuable for medical management.
Other types of scales, such as basic weight scales, are not eligible but may qualify only when accompanied by a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).
What Scales Are FSA/HSA Eligible?
The eligibility of scales for FSA/HSA reimbursement depends on their purpose and functionality. Here’s a breakdown of what qualifies:
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Body Composition Scales
These scales are universally FSA/HSA eligible because they provide critical health metrics beyond just weight, such as body fat percentage, muscle mass, bone density, and hydration levels.
Commonly used in medical management for conditions like obesity, heart disease, or recovery from surgery, they are considered tools for monitoring and improving health.
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Standard Weight Scales
Basic weight scales are not universally eligible .
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To qualify, these scales must be deemed medically necessary by a healthcare provider. For example:
Monitoring weight for fluid retention in heart failure.
Tracking weight loss or gain for obesity or eating disorders.
An LMN (Letter of Medical Necessity) is required to validate their use for a specific medical condition.
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Specialized Medical Scales
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Scales designed for specific medical conditions, such as those used for:
Lymphedema: To monitor fluid retention.
Bariatric Needs: For patients requiring weight monitoring on scales with higher weight capacities.
Mobility Challenges: Scales with wheelchair compatibility for individuals with disabilities.
These scales typically qualify when prescribed by a healthcare provider.
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How to Buy Scales With Your FSA/HSA and Using an LMN
Purchasing a Body Composition Scale:
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Select Your Scale:
Browse eligible body composition scales on platforms like buyFSA.com or the buyFSA app.
Add your chosen product to your cart by clicking the shopping cart icon.
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Complete Checkout:
Navigate to your cart and review your order.
Enter your FSA/HSA card details for payment at checkout. If the retailer does not accept FSA/HSA cards, use a personal credit card and retain your receipt for reimbursement.
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Submit for Reimbursement (if necessary):
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If you paid out-of-pocket, provide your FSA/HSA provider with a receipt containing:
Name of the provider.
Date of purchase (must fall within the FSA plan year).
Description of the product purchased.
Itemized list with UPCs (if required).
Total purchase amount.
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Purchasing Other Scales With an LMN:
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Consult Your Healthcare Provider:
Discuss your medical condition and whether a scale is necessary for its management.
Request an LMN detailing the diagnosis and explaining why the scale is essential for treatment.
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Obtain Approval:
Submit the LMN to your FSA/HSA provider to confirm eligibility before making a purchase.
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Make the Purchase:
Once approved, purchase your scale using your FSA/HSA card or pay out-of-pocket and save your receipt for reimbursement.
