Cold & Flu Medications
Cold and flu medications are eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA reimbursement.
Eligible for HSA, FSA, HRAhigh confidence
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Quick Reference
The IRS considers medicines and drugs used to alleviate or prevent a physical illness or condition as qualified medical expenses. Following the CARES Act of 2020, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including those for cold and flu symptoms, are eligible for reimbursement without a prescription.
When It Qualifies
- •Must be used for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body.
When It Doesn't
- •Not for general health or cosmetic purposes.
Similar Items
Official Source
IRS Publication 502
What Are Medical Expenses?
View on IRS.gov
Important Notice
- •Your specific plan may have different rules
- •Keep all receipts and documentation
- •This is informational only, not tax or legal advice
While this information is based on IRS rules, individual plan administrators may have specific requirements or limitations. Always retain your receipts for substantiation.