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Can you Buy Vitamins Using FSA Dollars?

September 22, 2021

Are you a member of a Flexible Spending account (FSA) FSA dollars can be used to purchase vitamins and dietary supplements. However, there are some restrictions. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act of 2020 (CARES Act of 2020), which repealed the Affordable Care Act’s requirement that prescriptions be given for over-the counter drugs and medications in order to be reimbursable via FSAs and Health Savings Accounts, has permanently restored qualified medical expenses to over-the–counter medicines and supplies retroactively to January 1, 2020. Unfortunately, this update does not apply to vitamins or dietary supplements.

Buy Vitamins Using FSA Funds by Establishing a Medical Need

However, the IRS does not include nutritional supplements in medical expenses. Only when a doctor prescribes them for a particular medical condition. These items also maintain your normal health. Though they are not for medical care.

A healthy diet and nutritional supplements also helps improve certain medical conditions. FSA dollars purchase these items. This is a great way to make use of your current year’s funds. Prenatal vitamins and supplements containing prenatal vitamins, chondroitin and glucosamine (found in Cooper Complete Joint Health), are eligible for purchase over-the-counter without the need to get a prescription.

Moreover, the IRS says that you cannot include in medical expenses the costs of nutritional supplements, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Also, only a doctor can prescribe them for a medical condition.

First, make an appointment with your doctor. A medical condition that is controllable by vitamins and supplements requires a prescription by the doctor. Next, place your order and complete the purchase.

Nutritional Supplements That May Be Qualified For FSA Reimbursement

Moreover, below are Cooper Complete vitamins and supplement recommendations. Also, you can use them on doctor’s recommendations for patients.

Vitamins to Reduce Chronic Inflammation

  • Omega-3 Supplements to Lower Triglycerides and Reduce Inflammation
  • Multivitamins Original and Basic One to lower C-Reactive Protein, an inflammatory marker
  • Turmeric Curcumin Complex promotes healthy inflammation response

Supplements for Joint Health

  • Joint Health (glucosamine, chondroitin), to maintain healthy joints (no prescription necessary).
  • Turmeric Curcumin Complex for Chronic Joint Pain

Vitamins for Heart Health

  • Vitamin D3 supplements to improve bone and heart health
  • Vitamin B12 supplements treat anemia symptoms
  • Omega-3 Supplements to Lower Triglycerides and Reduce Inflammation
  • CoenzymeQ10 (also known as CoQ10) supports heart health, and reduce side effects of statins.
  • Supplements for hypercholesterolemia with Red Yeast Rice and Berberine Complex

Supplements for Better Sleep

  • For better sleep cycles, use Prolonged-Release or Quick-Release Melatonin
  • Magnesium Oxide, Magnesium Glycinate and Magnesium Glycinate promote relaxation of the nervous system

Vitamins for Bone Health

  • Supplement with Calcium Citrate to improve bone strength
  • Vitamin D3 to increase calcium absorption and bone density

Condition Specific Supplements

  • Prostate Health Supplement to Improve Prostate Function
  • Menopause Health Supplement to support healthy estrogen levels and normal menopause symptoms
  • Dermatologic Health Supplement for Better Hair, Skin, and Nails
  • Eye Health Supplement to improve your eye health
  • Time Release Iron is a way to treat iron deficiency and anemia

These are just a few examples of situations where you might be eligible. However, talking to your doctor will help you decide what is best for you.

Buy Vitamins Using FSA (Flexible Spending Account) Dollars

Always, discuss your health concerns with your doctor and also ask for a note or letter detailing your medical need for the supplement or vitamin. Next, buy the recommended vitamin or supplement and submit an itemized receipt together with a copy the doctor’s note to receive reimbursement under your FSA plan.

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