How to Use Your HSA/FSA to Buy Red Light Therapy Products

Many people are unaware that they can use their Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to purchase medical and wellness products, including red light therapy devices. These accounts provide tax advantages and help individuals manage medical expenses effectively. At American Wellness Authority, we aim to make the process easier for you. In this guide, we’ll explain how to use your HSA/FSA to invest in red light therapy for eligible health-related needs

 Understanding HSA & FSA Accounts 

1. HSA (Health Savings Account) : An HSA is a tax-advantaged account available to individuals with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). Contributions are tax-free, and funds roll over annually, making it a long-term savings tool for medical expenses.
2. FSA (Flexible Spending Account): An FSA is an employer-sponsored tax-free account for medical expenses. Unlike an HSA, FSA funds typically follow a "use-it-or-lose-it" policy, meaning they must be spent within the plan year.

Both HSAs and FSAs provide a way to save on healthcare expenses while maximizing financial benefits.

Many red light therapy products qualify as medical expenses under IRS guidelines, particularly for pain relief, muscle recovery, or dermatological treatments. However, eligibility depends on certain factors:

• Confirm with Your HSA/FSA Provider: Before purchasing, check whether the specific device qualifies under your plan.

• Maintain Documentation: Keep receipts and, if required, obtain a doctor’s note or a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).

• Choose a Medical-Grade Device: Devices marketed for medical purposes rather than cosmetic use are more likely to qualify.
  

Numerous medical studies support the effectiveness of red light therapy for targeted health concerns: 

• NIH Study: Red Light Therapy for Pain Management 

• Clinical Research on Skin Rejuvenation with Red Light Therapy

• Muscle Recovery & Red Light Therapy 

  
  

• Purchase Before FSA Deadlines: Since FSAs have a “use-it-or-lose-it” policy, plan your purchases before the deadline to avoid losing funds.

• Bundle Eligible Expenses: If you need other HSA/FSA-eligible health products, consider buying them together to maximize your spending.

• Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you’re unsure whether red light therapy is right for you, speak with a medical professional who can provide guidance and assist with an LMN if necessary.

• Check for Sales and Discounts: Many retailers offer seasonal sales, allowing you to stretch your HSA/FSA funds further when purchasing a device.

• Track Your HSA/FSA Balance: Regularly monitor your account balance to ensure you are making the most of your available funds for health-related purchases.

• Tax Savings: Use pre-tax dollars to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

• Financial Flexibility: Invest in your health without impacting your regular budget.

• Long-Term Health Investment: Red light therapy can provide pain relief, improve skin health, and enhance muscle recovery, making it a valuable tool for overall well-being.

At American Wellness Authority, we understand that investing in your health is important. Whether you’re looking to manage pain, support muscle recovery, or address dermatological concerns, red light therapy can provide a non-invasive solution. By utilizing your HSA/FSA funds, you can make the most of your healthcare spending while addressing eligible medical needs.