If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA), you probably know they can cover things like copays and prescriptions. But you might not realize how many everyday items and services also qualify. Here’s what to know about what counts — and how to get the most out of these tax-advantaged accounts.

What’s the difference between an FSA and an HSA?

FSAs and HSAs are sometimes confused. But they work a little differently:

• FSA (Flexible Spending Account): An employer-sponsored account where you set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses like copays, deductibles and prescriptions.¹

• HSA (Health Savings Account): Also lets you save pre-tax dollars, but you must be enrolled in an HSA-eligible plan, often called a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP).²

What do FSAs and HSAs cover?

Both FSAs and HSAs can help pay for a wide range of health-related expenses, from daily essentials to specialized care. Here are some categories that may surprise you.

Over-the-counter essentials

Your account can help cover many items you’d normally pick up at the drugstore. That means more savings on everyday needs, like: ³

• Cold, flu and allergy medications: Cough syrup, throat lozenges, eye drops and allergy tablets.

• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen and other common pain medications.

• Period products and feminine care: Pads, tampons, menstrual cups and products for vaginal health.

• Family planning: Over-the-counter (OTC) birth control for men and women

• Skincare: Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) and acne products.

Health and wellness gadgets

From monitoring chronic conditions to managing recovery, your FSA or HSA can also help with health-related devices. Items that may be covered include: ³

• Monitoring tools: Thermometers, blood pressure monitors and blood sugar testing kits.

• Medical-related supplies: Crutches, wheelchairs and hearing aids.

• Physical therapy and pain relief devices: Heating pads, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) units and some wearable devices that track activity or heart rate (with a letter from your doctor).

Vision and dental care

Your FSA or HSA can help with both eye and dental health: ³

• Vision care: Eye exams, glasses, contact lenses and solution and LASIK surgery.

• Dental care: Routine cleanings, braces, fillings, root canals and dentures.

With a dental discount program, your FSA or HSA can go further than you think. Enter your zip code to find out more about dental discount programs and the discounts on dental and vision care from participating providers they offer.

Unique services and treatments

FSAs and HSAs don’t just cover products — they can also help with certain medical services. Those include some that may surprise you: ³

• Alternative care: Acupuncture and chiropractic visits (when medically necessary).

• Family planning and post-newborn care: Infertility treatments and vasectomies; breastfeeding supplies like breast pumps are also eligible.

• Mental health care: Counseling, therapy and psychiatric care (when prescribed by a physician).

• Weight-loss and addiction programs: Programs are eligible when prescribed by a doctor for a specific medical condition.

• Emergency and routine medical services: Ambulance rides, imaging tests, doctor visits, flu shots, yearly exams and childbirth-related costs.

How to make the most of your FSA or HSA

A little planning can help you stretch your dollars further. Consider the following tips to get the most bang for your buck:

• Contribute as much as you can within the limits to maximize tax savings.

• Track eligible expenses throughout the year.

• For FSAs, check if your employer offers a grace period or carryover option.

• For HSAs, remember funds roll over year to year — and some accounts even allow you to invest your balance.²

• Keep receipts and credit card statements for the things you buy.

Still wondering how a dental discount program can maximize your FSA or HSA? Call 1-844-211-7730 to speak to a licensed insurance agent or go online to get more information.

For informational purposes only. This information is compiled by UnitedHealthcare, and/or one of its affiliates, and does not diagnose problems or recommend specific treatment. Services and medical technologies referenced herein may not be covered under your plan. Please consult directly with your primary care physician if you need medical advice.

Sources:

1. Healthcare.gov. “Flexible spending account (FSA).” Accessed October 29, 2025. Retrieved from https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/flexible-spending-account-fsa/

2. Healthcare.gov. “Health Savings Account (HSA).” Accessed October 29, 2025. Retrieved from https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/health-savings-account-hsa/

3. Federal Flexible Spending Account Program. “Eligible health care FSA (HC FSA) expenses.” Accessed October 29, 2025. Retrieved from https://www.fsafeds.gov/explore/hcfsa/expenses

Part Number: 52962-X-0126