Allergy
Expenses for the diagnosis, treatment, and mitigation of allergies, including testing and medications, are generally eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA.
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Requirements
Certain allergy-related products, such as air purifiers or special bedding, may require a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a doctor stating they are medically necessary to treat a specific allergy.
The expenses must be for the treatment or diagnosis of a diagnosed allergy, not for general wellness or comfort.
Quick Reference
Medical expenses are defined by the IRS 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. Allergies are recognized medical conditions, and therefore, costs associated with their diagnosis and treatment qualify. The CARES Act also made over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, including allergy medications, eligible without a prescription.
When It Qualifies
- •Expenses must be primarily for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of an allergy.
- •Over-the-counter allergy medications are eligible without a prescription.
- •Prescription allergy medications are eligible.
- •Allergy testing and allergy shots (immunotherapy) are eligible.
- •Specific environmental control items (e.g., air purifiers, special bedding) may require a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a doctor stating they are medically necessary to treat a specific allergy.
When It Doesn't
- •Items for general health or comfort that are not primarily for medical care, unless prescribed with an LMN.
- •Cosmetic items or procedures not related to a medical condition.
Official Source
IRS Publication 502
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 guidelines, specific plan administrators may have their own substantiation requirements. Always retain detailed receipts for all purchases.