What Are You Buying with FSA Dollars?
I don't think we've ever had a conversation about this… what are you buying with your FSA dollars before the end of the year, readers? Being self-employed (and on the marketplace, ugh) I don't get those anymore, but back when I did, if I still had them left over I loved to get eyeglasses or contacts.
There's an entire FSA Store now — but if you want to purchase from a store you regularly buy from, a number of places have FSA sections, including Target, Walmart, and Amazon.
As of 2024, some of our favorite latest spots for buying women's eyeglasses online include Warby Parker, Zenni, EyebuyDirect, GlassesUSA, and 39dollarglasses — and lots have Black Friday sales going on right now.
(Just a reminder — a lot of these stores say that they are eligible for FSA and HSA, which is true. FSA dollars must be spent every year (use 'em or lose 'em), whereas money you've put into your HSA account grows tax-free year after year. If you need the funds from your HSA, they're there, but because of the tax advantages it's better to let them grow and plan on using that money years in the future. Some, like Morgan Stanley, even call HSAs “an overlooked retirement vehicle.”)
Stock photo via Deposit Photos / Irina_drozd.
I rarely have FSA funds leftover anymore since my kids now have a bunch of healthcare issues. But in the past I have used end-of-year extra funds to buy period underwear, first aid kits for home and car, a blood pressure cuff, and facial sunscreens (Super Goop, La Roche Posay, etc.).
I always have mine spent on copays and prescriptions by mid January.
Because of my health insurance plan requirements, my FSA is limited to dental expenses, anyone have suggestions for what would qualify under those requirements?
A maybe a nightguard, if you get it from a dentist?
I will use FSA funds this year for a new pair of glasses (will use eye benefit for contact lens) and a massage therapy gun. I try to spend down to the roll over amount.
My suggestion is physical therapy grade ice packs. They come in all sizes and last a long time and they get a lot of use and n my house, for injuries, for cooling off after yard work, and for packing atop drinks.
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