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Surgery

Surgery is an eligible medical expense for HSA, FSA, and HRA accounts when performed for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body.

Eligible for HSA, FSA, HRAhigh confidence

Eligibility Matrix

Eligibility status for all account types

Account TypeStatus
HSAEligible
FSAEligible
HRAEligible

Quick Reference

The IRS defines medical care as amounts paid for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body. Surgery directly falls under this definition as a procedure performed by a medical professional to address a health condition or bodily function. Therefore, it is a qualified medical expense.

When It Qualifies

  • Must be performed by a licensed medical professional.
  • Must be for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for affecting any structure or function of the body.

When It Doesn't

  • Cosmetic surgery is generally not eligible unless it is necessary to improve a deformity arising from a congenital abnormality, a personal injury, or a disfiguring disease.
  • Surgery for general health or wellness purposes without a specific medical condition is not eligible.

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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 their own substantiation requirements. Always retain detailed receipts and documentation for all medical expenses. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.