Every parent knows how pricey the back-to-school season can be. In addition to clothing and school supplies, there are eye exams, updated eyeglass and contacts prescriptions, sports physicals, dental checkups, and more.
But here’s something you might not know: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) can help cover some of these costs—including a few school-related items you might not expect!
Let’s take a look at some common back-to-school items and services that qualify for FSA and HSA spending.
Vaccines
Vaccinations help keep kids healthy and protect others around them.
In most states, public school systems (and many private schools) require children to have had certain immunizations – like measles, mumps, rubella, chicken pox, polio, pertussis (whooping cough), and diphtheria – before they can attend classes.
While insurance typically covers routine vaccinations, your FSA or HSA can pay for any that insurance does not cover.
Sleep Aids
Sleep is essential – especially for kids. Poor sleep affects mood, focus and the ability to learn.
Experts say children between the ages of 5 and 12 need at least 9.5 hours of sleep nightly, and teens may need 8 to 10 hours.
If your child struggles with sleep, FSA and HSA funds can be used for over-the-counter sleep aids and CPAP machines, among other sleep-related products.
First Aid Products
Running low on first aid supplies at home? And some schools ask parents to help restock the nurse’s office.
FSA- and HSA-qualified expenses include first aid products like:
- Bandages and bandaids
- Cold packs
- Antiseptic wipes and ointments
- Sunscreen
Eye Care
Children who have trouble seeing the board have a hard time learning.
FSA, Limited Purpose FSA (LPFSA), and HSA can pay for a range of associated vision-related expenses to ensure your child is seeing clearly:
- Vision exams
- Glasses or contact lenses
- Vision correction procedures, including LASIK and PRK
- Contact lens solution
Braille and Audio Reading Materials
If your student is visually impaired, FSA and HSA funds can cover the cost difference between the standard print editions and the Braille editions of required educational materials. You can also pay for audio versions of these materials.
Dental Expenses
Back-to-school is a great time for a dental checkup. An aching tooth or cavity can make it hard to concentrate, and dental health is directly related to overall wellness.
When you visit the dentist, you can use your FSA, LPFSA, or HSA for eligible expenses, including:
- Exams and Cleanings
- Sealants and fillings
- Gingivitis Treatments
- Root Canals and Crowns
- Extractions
- Braces
Want tips for a smooth dental visit? Check out the American Dental Association for a successful back-to-school checkup.
Acne Treatments
Acne can be a difficult and sometimes embarrassing part of growing up. If your child is dealing with acne, use your FSA and HSA for:
- Doctor and dermatologist visits
- Prescription acne treatments
- Some over-the-counter acne medications
- Light treatment therapy
Orthopedic Goods
Is your child involved in sports? Do they deal with sprained ankles or other common athletic ailments?
Be ready by stocking up on orthopedic devices and products, like ankle and knee braces, elastic bandages, athletic tape, arch supports, and back braces. Use your FSA or HSA to pay for them.
Back-to-school shopping can be expensive, but using FSA and HSA funds for qualified expenses can help ease the pain. Here’s to a happy and healthy school year!