Prescription toothpaste
Prescription toothpaste is eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA when prescribed by a medical professional to treat a specific medical condition.
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Requirements
A written prescription from a licensed medical professional (e.g., dentist or doctor) is required.
The toothpaste must be used to treat or mitigate a specific diagnosed medical condition, not for general oral hygiene or cosmetic purposes.
Quick Reference
The IRS allows expenses for items prescribed by a medical professional for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. While regular toothpaste is considered a personal hygiene item, prescription toothpaste is specifically formulated and prescribed to address a diagnosed medical condition, making it a qualified medical expense.
When It Qualifies
- •Must be prescribed by a licensed medical professional (e.g., dentist, doctor).
- •Must be used to treat or mitigate a specific diagnosed medical condition (e.g., severe gum disease, rampant tooth decay due to a medical condition, extreme sensitivity).
When It Doesn't
- •Over-the-counter (OTC) toothpaste for general oral hygiene or cosmetic purposes.
- •Prescription toothpaste used for general wellness or prevention without a diagnosed medical condition.
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
Eligibility can vary by plan administrator. Always retain your prescription and receipts for substantiation. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.