Nutritional counseling
Nutritional counseling is eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA if it is prescribed by a physician to treat a specific diagnosed medical 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 specific disease diagnosed by a physician (e.g., obesity, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes).
A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a physician may be required to substantiate that the counseling is for the treatment of a specific medical condition, not for general health or cosmetic purposes.
Quick Reference
The IRS considers nutritional counseling a qualified medical expense when it is part of a treatment plan for a specific disease diagnosed by a physician. This aligns with the definition of medical care for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. Counseling for general health improvement or weight loss solely to improve appearance is not eligible.
When It Qualifies
- •Must be prescribed or recommended by a physician.
- •Must be for the treatment of a specific diagnosed medical condition (e.g., obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure).
When It Doesn't
- •Counseling for general health improvement or wellness.
- •Counseling for weight loss solely to improve appearance.
- •Counseling for conditions not diagnosed by a physician.
Similar Items
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 a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) if required. This information is for educational purposes only and not tax or legal advice.