We'll show you how to best use FSA and HSA funds before they expire.
Hello friends! How are you doing? I hope your morning starts well! We're in full vacation mode here; I'm really trying to finish everything this week. I started baking for the holidays but it's all gone lol so I'm starting over (and keeping some in the garage freezer!).
I'm also starting to plan content for the new year and 2026. I'm so excited for everything that's coming next year!
For today's post, I wanted to share some tips on using FSA and HSA funds before expiration 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 this is something I'm exploring in the new year since we love wellness essentials and lab tests.) I'm also tempted to start with this because it's the first thing I would buy.
The reality is that every year thousands of people leave money on the table simply because they are unsure about what actually qualifies for HSA and FSA spending.
The good news is that there are so many smart and legitimate ways to use these tools to support your health – especially when you focus on prevention, inflammation reduction, hormone balance, and long-term wellness.
I wanted to talk to you about 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 will actually make a difference in how you feel.
First, a quick refresher: FSA vs. HSA
What is the difference between FSA and HSA?
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
– Typically it’s “use it or lose it” until the end of the year.
– Sponsored by the employer
– Covers eligible medical expenses
Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
– Funds are carried over from year to year
– Available with high deductible health plans
– Can be used for many of the same eligible expenses
Always check your specific plan rules, but the categories listed below are typically eligible.
(A little tip: you can switch Amazon to FSA/HSA eligible)
1. Functional health testing (a huge opportunity)
One of the best uses of FSA/HSA dollars is through testing, especially if you're struggling with fatigue, inflammation, gut issues, or hormone changes.
Appropriate tests may include:
– Food sensitivity testing
– Minerals and heavy metals
– Stress, mood and metabolism tests
– Gut health and microbiome testing
Brands like EquiLife offer a wide range of functional at-home lab tests that are often FSA/HSA eligible – and these tests can give you clarity rather than guesswork.
If you've ever wanted to “find out what's actually going on,” this is a smart place to spend those funds.
2. Support with detoxification and inflammation
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 lighter and less inflamed.
Eligible items may include:
– Detox programs
– Dietary supplements including magnesium, melatonin, adrenal support, omega-3 fatty acids and multivitamins
A structured detox program (like this one from EquiLife) can be a strategic and compliant way to use resources that would otherwise expire, especially if inflammation and bloating are ongoing problems for you.
3. Red light therapy and recovery tools
That often makes you wonder.
Many recovery and therapy devices qualify for FSA/HSA use if they are designed for pain relief, inflammation, circulation or muscle regeneration.
Potentially eligible articles:
– Red light therapy devices
– Infrared or PEMF recovery tools
– Muscle recovery and pain relief devices (like these compression boots and this foot massager)
Brands like HigherDOSE develop wellness tools that support recovery, circulation, and cellular health, and several of their products are generally eligible through FSA/HSA marketplaces.
If you have been considering red light therapy for skin, joint pain, or recovery, this can be a very smart year-end purchase.
Here are some of my favorites:
PEMF Go Mat. I use it every day for breathing exercises and meditation or when I need a little recharge while working at the computer. Use FITNESSISTA15.
The famous sauna blanket! This was a Black Friday gift to myself years ago and I still use it at least once a week to relieve stress, sweat a lot, glow skin, and get great sleep. Use FITNESSISTA15.
Red light face mask. I use it every morning when I'm doing 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 so many reasons. For energy, focus, mood, inflammation, skin, pain, muscle soreness, fever and everything else.
4. Fitness and exercise equipment
Exercise is medicine and certain fitness equipment is suitable for this.
Commonly approved items include:
– Resistance bands
– Dumbbells or kettlebells
– Foam rollers
– Balance tools
– Stability balls
– Massage guns
If you're building a home exercise facility or upgrading existing equipment, your FSA/HSA funds can often be used for durable medical or fitness equipment that supports physical health.
5. Sleep support and stress reduction
Sleep and stress management are fundamental to hormones, metabolism, and immune system health—and many people don't realize how many tools are available to help with this.
Eligible items may include:
– Sleep aids and support
– Blue light blocking glasses
– Oura Ring. I love this thing!
– 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 supplies you will definitely use
Don't overlook the basics; they add up quickly.
General FSA/HSA Eligibility Requirements:
– First aid material
– A retainer cleaner
– Heating pad or ice pack
– Hand sanitizer
– Thermometer
– My favorite mold-free coffee
– Blood pressure monitors
– Glucose meters (this is the one I use and recommend to my clients)
– A smart scale
– Sunscreen (yes, even this one!)
– OTC pain relievers and allergy medications
– Prescription sunglasses!!! 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 legitimate purchases unused.
Often eligible:
– Menstrual products
– Heating pad for cramps
– Ovulation and fertility tracker
– Certain hormone support aids
If you're focused on hormone balance, this category is worth checking out.
How to Check Eligibility (Quick Tips)
• Look for the “FSA/HSA Eligible” label on product pages.
• Use the major FSA/HSA online shops or marketplaces
• Keep receipts just in case
• If in doubt, ask your plan administrator
The rules may vary slightly, but many wellness brands now clearly label eligible products.
If you have FSA or HSA funds that are about to expire, this is your reminder:
Use them to invest in your health; Don't waste them!
Whether it's functional testing, detox support, recovery tools, or fitness equipment, these purchases can help you feel better now and prepare for a stronger year.
If you're ever unsure about what would be most effective for your body, I'd be happy to help you brainstorm. If you have these accounts and love how you spent your money, please share the details with us!
I wish you a great day and see you soon!
xo,
Gina
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