Cool mist humidifier
A cool mist humidifier may be eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA reimbursement if it is primarily used to treat a specific medical condition and is recommended by a medical professional.
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Requirements
A Letter of Medical Necessity from a doctor stating that the humidifier is required to treat a specific medical condition (e.g., asthma, allergies, respiratory illness) is typically needed.
The humidifier must be used to treat a specific diagnosed medical condition, not for general comfort or wellness.
Quick Reference
The IRS considers medical expenses to be the costs of diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body. While humidifiers are often used for general comfort, they can be considered a qualified medical expense if a medical professional determines they are necessary to alleviate or treat a specific medical condition.
When It Qualifies
- •Must be primarily for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of a specific medical condition.
- •Requires a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a physician or other licensed medical practitioner.
When It Doesn't
- •Not eligible if used solely for general health, comfort, or to alleviate dry air without a specific medical recommendation.
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 detailed receipts and your Letter of Medical Necessity for substantiation. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.