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Making the Most of Your FSA/HSA: Smart Back-to-School Healthcare Purchases
As the back-to-school season approaches, families are busy preparing for a successful academic year. Amidst the excitement of new supplies and familiar routines, it’s also a prime time to consider how to best utilize Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for essential healthcare needs. A recent announcement from PR Newswire, titled “Fast Finds: 10 Back-to-School Healthcare Purchases for Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) Users,” offers valuable guidance on making eligible purchases that can benefit students and families alike.
These employer-sponsored benefits, FSAs and HSAs, provide pre-tax dollars that can be used for qualified medical, dental, and vision expenses, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs. With the academic year often bringing new health considerations, from vision changes to sports-related needs, planning these purchases strategically can ensure these valuable funds are used effectively before they expire.
The PR Newswire release highlights ten key categories of back-to-school healthcare purchases that are typically eligible for FSA and HSA reimbursement. While the specific article details are not provided here, these common categories often include:
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Vision Care: This is a particularly relevant area for students returning to school. Eligible purchases can encompass prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses, crucial for academic success. Additionally, routine eye exams performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist are generally covered, ensuring students have the clear vision they need for reading, writing, and participating in classroom activities.
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Dental Care: Maintaining oral health is paramount for overall well-being. FSA and HSA funds can often be used for dental check-ups, teeth cleanings, and orthodontic treatments like braces. Addressing any dental concerns before the busy school year begins can prevent potential discomfort and ensure students can focus on their studies.
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First-Aid and Medical Supplies: Preparing a well-stocked first-aid kit is a sensible step for any household. Eligible items commonly include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen), and thermometers. These supplies are invaluable for addressing minor injuries or ailments that may arise.
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Prescription Medications: Any necessary prescription medications for students, whether for chronic conditions or temporary illnesses, are eligible. Families can utilize their FSA/HSA funds to cover co-pays or the full cost of these prescriptions.
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Medical Equipment: Certain medical equipment that aids in health management or recovery can also be eligible. This might include items like crutches or splints if a student experiences an injury.
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Specialized Healthcare Services: Depending on specific needs, certain specialized services might be covered. This could potentially include things like physiotherapy sessions or speech therapy if prescribed by a medical professional.
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Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications with a Prescription: While many OTC medications are now eligible for FSA/HSA use without a prescription, obtaining a doctor’s note for specific items can sometimes broaden the scope of what is covered.
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Sun Protection: Especially for students involved in outdoor activities or sports, sunscreen with an appropriate SPF is an important health purchase. Many FSAs and HSAs now allow for the purchase of qualifying sunscreens.
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Allergy Relief: For students suffering from seasonal allergies, antihistamines and other allergy relief medications can provide much-needed comfort and help them concentrate in school.
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Mental Health Support: In recognition of growing awareness around mental wellness, certain services related to mental health, such as counseling sessions with a licensed therapist, may be eligible for reimbursement.
The PR Newswire announcement serves as a timely reminder for individuals with FSAs and HSAs to review their account balances and plan their eligible healthcare purchases before the end of their plan year. By understanding what qualifies, families can effectively leverage these pre-tax benefits to support their students’ health and well-being throughout the academic year. It’s always recommended to consult with your plan administrator or refer to your specific FSA or HSA guidelines for the most accurate information on eligible expenses.
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PR Newswire People Culture published ‘Fast Finds: 10 Back-to-School Healthcare Purchases for Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) Users’ at 2025-08-26 14:04. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.