HSA/FSA Eligible Apparel & Footwear

Sometimes, yes. Everyday clothes and shoes aren't qualified medical expenses on their own, but specialty apparel and footwear may be HSA/FSA eligible for qualified customers when a licensed clinician connects the product to a diagnosed condition through a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).

That covers more than most people expect including orthopedic shoes, recovery slides, insoles and orthotics, medical-grade compression socks and sleeves, and adaptive clothing and footwear with easy-access closures.

Foot and lower-body conditions come up most often, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, arthritis, and diabetic neuropathy.

On the apparel side, compression garments are commonly recommended for varicose veins, lymphedema, and poor circulation, while adaptive clothing can help people living with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or limited dexterity, or those recovering from surgery.

Wanting a more comfortable pair of sneakers or a new workout outfit doesn't meet the IRS standard on its own. The purchase needs to be tied to treating or managing a specific health need.

They can be. Medical-grade compression socks, stockings, and sleeves may be HSA/FSA eligible for qualified customers when they're used to manage a documented condition. Compression wear bought for general comfort or athletic performance typically won't qualify without that documented need.

Paying with pre-tax HSA/FSA dollars saves qualified customers an average of about 30%, though your actual savings depend on your individual tax rate. On a $180 pair of orthopedic shoes, that works out to roughly $54 back in your pocket. HSA/FSA tax savings vary; learn more at truemed.com/disclosures.