5 HSA-Eligible Expenses Your Patients Don't Know They Can Use

You've likely used your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for a prescription or a co-pay at our office. But many people don't realize that the definition of a "qualified medical expense" has grown significantly over the last few years. These tax-free dollars aren't just for when you're sick; they're a powerful tool for your daily wellness.

At Tru Medical Management, we believe that staying healthy should be affordable. Using your HSA for preventive care items can save you a lot of money over time. If you have funds sitting in an account, it's time to put them to work for your long-term health.

What are the hidden HSA-eligible expenses?

The five surprising HSA-eligible expenses include menstrual products, broad-spectrum sunscreen, acupuncture, medical massage, and compression socks. Here's how these common items and services qualify for tax-free spending.

1. Menstrual care products: Thanks to the CARES Act of 2020, you can now use HSA funds for tampons, pads, liners, and even reusable items like menstrual cups. This change recognized these items as medical necessities rather than luxury goods.
2. Broad-spectrum sunscreen: Any sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher that offers broad-spectrum protection—meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays—is eligible. According to Stanford University (2025), daily sunscreen use can reduce your risk of melanoma by 50%.
3. Acupuncture: This isn't just an alternative therapy anymore. It's a recognized treatment for chronic pain, including tension headaches and lower back issues, and is fully eligible for HSA reimbursement.
4. Massage therapy: If you're dealing with a specific medical issue, such as chronic back pain or injury recovery, massage is often covered. The American College of Physicians (2017) actually recommends massage as a first-line treatment for low back pain before using medication.
5. Compression socks: These garments use graduated compression—pressure that's tightest at the ankle and decreases up the leg—to improve circulation. They're eligible for those who need them for travel, pregnancy, or jobs that require long hours of standing.

How to use your funds for wellness

Though buying sunscreen or pads at the pharmacy is straightforward, some services like massage or acupuncture might require a little extra paperwork. Your plan administrator may ask for a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN). This is just a simple note from our team explaining that the service is a treatment for a specific health condition, like chronic pain or migraines.

 It's also important to keep your receipts. Even if your HSA debit card works at the register, the IRS may want proof that your purchase met the requirements. For example, a moisturizer with SPF might not count if its primary purpose is cosmetic, so look for bottles labeled specifically as sunscreen.

Our team at Tru Medical Management is here to help you navigate your health journey and make the most of your benefits. Whether you need a consultation for chronic pain or a routine check-up, we'll ensure you have the documentation you need. Contact our Brooklyn office to schedule an appointment and take charge of your health today.