Share the best ways to use FSA and HSA funds before they expire.
Hello friends! How are you doing? I hope your morning starts off well! We are here in full vacation mode; I’m really trying to finish everything this week. I started cooking for the holidays but everything was consumed lol so I’m starting again (and I’m storing some in the freezer in the garage!).
I’m also starting to plan content for the new year and 2026. I’m so excited for everything that’s happening next year!
For today’s article, I wanted to share some tips on how to use FSA and HSA funds before they expire because I know many of you are also in vacation mode and this may not be on your radar. (We don’t have these accounts but it’s something I’m exploring in the new year as we love wellness essentials and lab testing). I’m also tempted to start because This is the first thing I would buy.
The reality is that every year, thousands of people leave money on the table simply because they aren’t sure what actually qualifies for HSA and FSA spending.
The good news is that there are plenty of smart, legitimate ways to use these funds to support your health, especially if you’re focused on prevention, reducing inflammation, hormone balance, and long-term wellness.
I wanted to discuss some of the best ways to use your FSA and HSA funds before they expire, including some of my favorite wellness tools, functional health options, and practical purchases that actually make a difference based on how you feel.
First, a quick refresher: FSA vs. HSA
What is the difference between FSA and HSA?
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
– Typically “use it or lose it” by the end of the year
– Sponsored by employer
– Covers eligible medical expenses
Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
– Funds are rolled over from year to year
– Available with high deductible health plans
– Can be used for several of the same eligible expenses
Always check your plan’s specific rules, but the categories below are generally eligible.
(A little tip: you can switch Amazon for eligible FSA/HSA criteria)
1. Functional health testing (a huge opportunity)
One of the best uses of FSA/HSA dollars is for testing, especially if you have fatigue, inflammation, gut issues, or hormonal changes.
Eligible tests may include:
– Stress, mood and metabolism tests
– Gut health and microbiome testing
Brands like EquiLife offer a wide range of at-home functional lab tests that are often FSA/HSA eligible – and these tests can give you clarity rather than guesswork.
If you wanted to “figure out what’s really going on”, this is a smart place to spend those funds.
2. Detoxification and Inflammation Support
Many people wait until January to set health and wellness goals, but using your FSA/HSA funds now can help you start the new year feeling lighter and less fired up.
Eligible items may include:
– Supplements including magnesium, melatonin, adrenal support, Omega 3And multivitamins
A structured detox program (such as this one from EquiLife) can be a strategic and compliant way to use funds that would otherwise expire, especially if inflammation and bloating are ongoing issues for you.
3. Red Light Therapy and Recovery Tools
This is where people are often surprised.
Many recovery and therapeutic devices qualify for FSA/HSA use when they are designed to relieve pain, inflammation, circulation, or muscle recovery.
Potentially eligible items:
– Red light therapy devices
– Infrared or PEMF recovery tools
– Muscle recovery and pain relief devices (like these compression boots and that foot massager)
Brands like HigherDOSE create wellness tools that support recovery, circulation, and cellular health, and many of their products are commonly eligible in the FSA/HSA marketplaces.
If you’re considering red light therapy for skin, joint pain, or recovery, this can be a very smart end-of-year purchase.
Here are some of my favorites:
Pemf got. I use it every day for breathing and meditation, or when I need a little recharge while working on the computer. Use FITNESSSISTA15.
The famous sauna blanket! This was a Black Friday gift for me years ago and I still use it at least once a week for stress relief, good sweating, glowing skin, and restful sleep. Use FITNESSSISTA15.
Anti-red light mask. I use it every morning when I’m doing household chores or multitasking. It gives my skin an amazing glow and I have noticed a huge difference in the texture of my skin.
Lumebox also accepts FSA/HSA. I use it every day and for many reasons. For energy, focus, mood, inflammation, skin, body aches, muscle pain, fever, everything.
4. Fitness and Movement Equipment
Movement is medicine and some fitness tools qualify for it.
Typically eligible items include:
– Resistance bands
– Dumbbells or kettlebells
– Foam rollers
– Balancing tools
– Stability balls
If you’re creating a home workout setup or upgrading what you already have, your FSA/HSA funds can often be used for durable medical or fitness equipment that supports physical health.
5. Sleep Support and Stress Reduction
Managing sleep and stress is fundamental to hormones, metabolism and immune health – and many people don’t realize how many tools qualify.
Eligible items may include:
– Sleep aids and supports
– Oura ring. I love this stuff!
– Certain relaxation or recovery tools
– Meditation or biofeedback devices
If poor sleep is sabotaging your energy, this is a great category to explore.
6. Everyday health essentials you’ll use anyway
Don’t neglect the basics; they add up quickly.
Common FSA/HSA eligible essentials:
– Heating pads or blocks of ice
– My favorite mold-free coffee
– Blood pressure monitors
– Glucometers (that’s the one I use and recommend to customers)
– Sunscreen (yes even this one!)
– Over-the-Counter Pain Relief and allergy medications
– Sunglasses with prescription!!! I love mine so much
Stocking up now can save you money later.
7. Menstrual, hormonal and women’s health products
Women often leave many qualifying purchases unused.
Often eligible:
– Heating pads for cramps
– Ovulation and fertility trackers
– Some hormonal support tools
If your focus is on hormonal balance, this category is worth checking out.
How to Check Eligibility (Quick Tips)
• Look for “FSA/HSA Eligible” labels on product pages.
• Use major FSA/HSA stores or online marketplaces.
• Keep receipts just in case
• If in doubt, ask your plan administrator
The rules may vary slightly, but many wellness brands now clearly state which products qualify.
If you have FSA or HSA funds that are about to expire, here’s your reminder:
Use them to invest in your health; don’t waste them!
Whether it’s functional testing, detoxification assistance, recovery tools, or fitness equipment, these purchases can help you feel better now and prepare you for a stronger year ahead.
If you’re ever unsure what would have the most impact on your body, I’m always happy to help brainstorm with you. If you have these accounts and are excited about how you spent your funds, share the details with us!
Have an amazing day and see you soon!
xo,
Gina
