Ankle brace
Ankle braces are eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA reimbursement when used to treat or prevent a specific medical condition or injury.
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Requirements
The ankle brace must be used to treat a diagnosed medical condition, injury, or to prevent recurrence as recommended by a medical professional. While a prescription is not always required, documentation of the medical necessity (e.g., a doctor's note or diagnosis) is highly recommended for substantiation.
Quick Reference
The IRS considers expenses paid for equipment, supplies, and diagnostic devices needed for medical care as qualified medical expenses. An ankle brace falls under this category as it is used to support, treat, or prevent injury to the ankle, thereby affecting the structure or function of the body for medical purposes.
When It Qualifies
- •Used to treat a specific injury (e.g., sprain, fracture recovery).
- •Used to mitigate a chronic condition (e.g., ankle instability).
- •Used to prevent re-injury as recommended by a medical professional.
- •Documentation of medical necessity (e.g., doctor's note, diagnosis) is advisable for substantiation.
When It Doesn't
- •Used solely for general athletic performance enhancement without a medical necessity.
- •Used for general comfort or cosmetic purposes without a medical condition.
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Important Notice
- •Your specific plan may have different rules
- •Keep all receipts and documentation
- •This is informational only, not tax or legal advice
While generally eligible, specific plan administrators may have varying requirements for substantiation. Always retain detailed receipts and documentation of medical necessity. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.