If you're like an estimated 86 percent of Americans, you probably take vitamins regularly. Supplement usage has skyrocketed in recent years as more people attempt to take a proactive approach to their health.
There's tons of information out there about HSA coverage, contribution limits, or how to calculate HSA tax savings over time. But few truly understand how vitamins fit into the equation. Are vitamins an HSA-eligible expense? Let's find out!
Understanding HSA Eligibility
Health savings accounts prioritize necessary medical expenses. Eligibility can be confusing. For clarity, you must look towards IRS guidelines. The code ultimately determines what medical care expenses are eligible for tax deductions.
We won't get into the technical jargon. However, the IRS code essentially states that funds used to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent a specific medical condition qualify.
Do Vitamins Meet the Criteria?
Unfortunately, most vitamins do not meet the IRS definition. It's a bit of a gray area, as many vitamins focus on general health. They fill the nutritional gaps you experience in your diet while addressing deficiencies.
That said, vitamin use is mainly optional and doesn't treat a specific condition. For this reason, vitamins aren't a qualifying medical expense that your HSA will cover.
Notable Exceptions
Most vitamins don't fit the bill for HSA eligibility. But, there are a couple of exceptions!
The first is prenatal vitamins. These vitamins directly support fetal development and can help prevent complications or defects. Many women's health physicians recommend them during pregnancy.
Another exception is glucosamine and chondroitin. These supplements support the joint cartilage, which may help slow deterioration and alleviate pain. Physicians typically recommend them to treat conditions like arthritis.
Those are the two main exceptions, but others do exist. Doctors who prescribe vitamins to treat specific conditions can provide a Letter of Medical Necessity. With that letter, the HSA may cover the costs.
Finding the Right HSA Plan for You
While most vitamins don't fall under the umbrella of qualifying HSA expenses, these plans are still worth getting. Once you know how to calculate HSA tax savings, the benefits become apparent. The best HSA plans help you prepare for the future, provide peace of mind, and maximize your financial safety net.
Read a similar article about individual health savings account here at this page.
