Rescue inhaler
A rescue inhaler is eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA reimbursement when prescribed by a licensed medical professional.
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 is required for a rescue inhaler to be a qualified medical expense.
Quick Reference
The IRS considers amounts paid for medicines prescribed by a doctor to be qualified medical expenses. A rescue inhaler falls under this category as it is a prescription medication used to treat a specific medical condition, such as asthma or COPD.
When It Qualifies
- •Must be prescribed by a licensed medical professional.
When It Doesn't
- •Over-the-counter inhalers that are not prescribed by a doctor are generally not eligible, unless they are specifically for a medical condition and meet other IRS criteria for OTC medicines (though most rescue inhalers are prescription-only).
Similar Items
Official Source
IRS Publication 502 (2024)
Medicines
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. Always retain your receipts and prescription for substantiation. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.