This post contains affiliate links, and we will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links.
Healthcare costs can be a burden for many individuals and families, and that’s where Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) come into play.
These accounts offer tax advantages for medical expenses, but the range of eligible products and services can be quite broad.
One item often questioned is the office chair, particularly if it’s used to alleviate or prevent back pain. So, are office chairs HSA and FSA eligible? The simple answer is: Yes.
What are HSA and FSA?
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a type of savings account that lets you set aside money on a pre-tax basis to pay for qualified medical expenses. HSAs are often paired with high-deductible health insurance plans.
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) works similarly to an HSA but is typically offered through an employer’s benefits package.
Like an HSA, an FSA allows for pre-tax dollars to be set aside for medical expenses, but the funds typically must be used within the plan year.
Office Chairs and Their Eligibility
Office chairs, particularly ergonomic ones, can be purchased using HSA or FSA funds if they are for the treatment of a medical condition.
However, to be eligible for reimbursement, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) must accompany the purchase.
This letter demonstrates that the chair is needed to treat or alleviate a medical condition.
While office chairs are not typically covered by HSA or FSA funds, there are exceptions for medically necessary equipment, such as ergonomic chairs prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How to Purchase an Office Chair with HSA or FSA Funds
- Consult with a healthcare provider: If you have a medical condition that could be alleviated by using an ergonomic office chair, discuss this with your doctor. They can provide you with a Letter of Medical Necessity, which is required for the purchase to be eligible for reimbursement.
- Check with your plan administrator: Before making a purchase, consult with your HSA or FSA administrator to ensure that an office chair is considered a qualified medical expense under your specific plan.
- Keep all documentation: After your purchase, keep your receipt and the Letter of Medical Necessity in a safe place. You may need these documents to get reimbursed from your HSA or FSA, and they can also be important for tax purposes.
Conclusion
Yes, office chairs, particularly ergonomic ones, can be HSA and FSA-eligible if they are needed for the treatment of a medical condition and accompanied by a Letter of Medical Necessity.
As always, it’s important to check with your individual HSA or FSA plan administrator and consult with a healthcare provider before making a purchase.
Please note that the information in this article is up to date as of May 2023. For the most accurate and current information, please consult your HSA or FSA plan administrator or a tax professional.
FAQs
Can I get a prescription for an office chair?
Yes, you can get a prescription for an office chair if it is deemed a medical necessity by your healthcare provider.
Is a standing desk FSA eligible?
Standing desks may be FSA eligible if they are used to treat a diagnosed medical condition and with a letter of medical necessity.
Are footrests FSA eligible?
Footrests may be FSA eligible if they are used to treat a diagnosed medical condition and with a letter of medical necessity.
Are anti-fatigue mats FSA eligible?
Anti-fatigue mats may be FSA eligible if they are used to treat a diagnosed medical condition and with a letter of medical necessity.
Related Articles
