Joint supplements
Joint supplements may be eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA reimbursement if recommended by a medical practitioner to treat a specific diagnosed medical condition and substantiated with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Requirements
A written statement from a licensed medical practitioner (e.g., doctor) is required, documenting that the joint supplement is medically necessary to treat a specific diagnosed medical condition.
The joint supplement must be used to treat a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician, not for general health or preventative purposes.
Quick Reference
The IRS generally considers expenses for nutritional supplements, vitamins, herbal supplements, or similar products as eligible medical expenses only if they are recommended by a medical practitioner as treatment for a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician. Without such a recommendation and diagnosis, they are considered for general health and are not eligible.
When It Qualifies
- •Must be recommended by a medical practitioner (e.g., doctor) to treat a specific medical condition.
- •A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) must be obtained from the medical practitioner, clearly stating the diagnosis and the medical necessity of the joint supplement.
- •The expense must be primarily for the prevention or alleviation of a physical or mental defect or illness.
When It Doesn't
- •Not eligible if used for general health, wellness, or preventative purposes without a specific diagnosed medical condition.
- •Not eligible if purchased without a medical practitioner's recommendation and a Letter of Medical Necessity.
Similar Items
Official Source
IRS Publication 502 (2024)
What Are Medical Expenses? - Nutritional Supplements
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 guidelines, individual plan administrators may have specific requirements or limitations. Always retain detailed receipts and documentation, including any Letter of Medical Necessity, for your records. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax or legal advice.