Mental health counseling
Mental health counseling is eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA accounts when it is for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of a mental illness or condition.
Eligibility Matrix
Eligibility status for all account types
| Account Type | Status |
|---|---|
| HSA | Eligible |
| FSA | Eligible |
| HRA | Eligible |
Requirements
The counseling must be for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition, not for general well-being or personal growth.
Quick Reference
The IRS considers 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, as medical care. Mental health counseling falls under this definition when it addresses a specific mental illness or condition. This makes it a qualified medical expense.
When It Qualifies
- •The counseling must be for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition.
- •Services must be provided by a licensed or certified mental health professional.
When It Doesn't
- •Counseling for general well-being, personal growth, or marital issues (unless prescribed as part of treatment for a diagnosed medical condition) is generally 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
Eligibility can vary based on your specific plan's rules. Always keep detailed receipts and documentation, including a diagnosis from a medical professional, for substantiation. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.