Vitamins
Vitamins are eligible for HSA, FSA, and HRA accounts only if they are prescribed by a medical practitioner 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
A written prescription from a licensed medical practitioner is required for the vitamin.
The vitamin must be prescribed as a treatment for a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician, not for general health or wellness.
Quick Reference
The IRS generally considers vitamins and other supplements as expenses for general health and not for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of a specific disease. However, if a medical practitioner recommends or prescribes them as treatment for a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician, they can be considered a qualified medical expense.
When It Qualifies
- •Must be prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner.
- •Must be for the treatment of a specific diagnosed medical condition.
When It Doesn't
- •Vitamins taken for general health, wellness, or preventative purposes without a specific diagnosed medical condition are not eligible.
- •Vitamins purchased without a prescription for a diagnosed condition are not eligible.
Official Source
IRS Publication 502 (2024)
What Expenses Can't Be Included? - Vitamins and supplements
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 IRS rules govern eligibility, individual plan administrators may have specific requirements or limitations. Always retain detailed receipts and documentation (like a prescription or Letter of Medical Necessity) for your records. This information is for educational purposes and not tax or legal advice.