Back brace
A back brace is eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA funds when used for medical care.
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Quick Reference
The IRS considers expenses paid for equipment, supplies, and diagnostic devices needed for medical care to be qualified medical expenses. A back brace falls under this category as it is typically used to alleviate or prevent a physical disability or illness, or to support a specific body function.
When It Qualifies
- •The back brace must be primarily for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body.
- •It must be used to treat a medical condition, injury, or to provide necessary support as recommended by a medical professional.
When It Doesn't
- •Not eligible if used solely for general comfort, athletic performance enhancement, or other non-medical purposes.
- •Not eligible if it is not primarily for medical care.
Official Source
IRS Publication 502 (2024)
Medical Equipment, Improvements, and Home Care
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 generally eligible, specific plan administrators may have their own substantiation requirements. Always retain your receipts and documentation for tax purposes. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.