2020 has been a trying year for everyone. With so many people at home and not following their normal spending habits – whether personal, pleasure, and healthcare – it’s quite possible that your remaining FSA balance is larger than normal. In fact, FSAStore.com estimates that the average FSA account holder has 30-35 percent more in their account than usual for this point in the plan year. With the end of 2020 quickly approaching, it’s time to put your FSA to work.
After all, your plan may have a use-it-or-lose-it policy or maybe you can only carryover up to $550 max. Here are some ideas for using your FSA balance.
Ideas for Spending Your FSA Balance
OTC Medications
One of the biggest developments this year for healthcare benefits is the relaxation of rules related to over-the-counter medications. The CARES Act, passed in March 2020, expanded the amount of eligible healthcare expenses for FSAs to include, among other items:
- Allergy and sinus, cold and cough remedies
- Pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Treatments for your feet, such as anti-fungal creams/sprays
- Hemorrhoid treatments
- Diaper rash ointments and teething gels
COVID-19 Testing
Although COVID-19 tests provided by healthcare professionals normally are covered in full by health insurance, at-home tests usually are not, at least as of now. However you can use your FSA to purchase home kits, such as the one produced by Lucira Health specifically to test for COVID-19 that was approved by the FDA just this week.
Menstrual care products
Believe it or not, menstrual care products were not an FSA eligible expense until the passage of the CARES Act. You can use your Flexible Spending Account to buy tampons, pads, panty liners, and other over-the-counter products designed for menstrual care.
Dental exams
If you have not seen your dentist in 2020, make an appointment now. Dental copays, x-rays, and non-cosmetic procedures are all FSA-eligible expenses.
Sleep aids
The holidays can be especially stressful, even when we are not dealing with a pandemic. If you or someone in your immediate family is having trouble sleeping through the night, you can buy sleeping aids with your FSA. These can include OTC medications, eye masks, and adult nighttime diapers.
Where to Shop
Thankfully, healthcare consumers have a number of places they can shop in-store or online. FSAStore.com is an online retailers dedicated to selling only FSA-eligible products, helping consumers feel confident that their purchases are reimbursable. You could also shop at Walgreens, CVS, and other in-store/online retailers that sell FSA-eligible products.
You can use your FSA debit card to cut down on filing claims for reimbursement, or buy with cash or other payment method and submit a claim for reimbursement. The choice is up to you.
Check Your FSA Balance
Before you shop, check your FSA balance. You can log in through your mobile app or through our online portal.
Make sure you maximize your FSA balance in 2020! The money is yours, so put it to good use.