Are Blue Light Glasses HSA Eligible?: 1 Minute to Understanding HSA Eligibility for Eyewear

Blue light glasses have become increasingly popular due to their purported ability to reduce eye strain from screens and artificial lighting. When it comes to HSA (Health Savings Account) eligibility, the IRS stipulates that the expense must be primarily for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. Generally, prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses are HSA eligible because they address vision correction prescribed by an eye care professional. However, non-prescription blue light glasses typically are not HSA eligible, since they are considered preventative or lifestyle products rather than medical necessities. That being said, if your blue light glasses come with a prescription, you can usually use your HSA funds for their purchase, and it’s important to keep documentation of your prescription for reimbursement or audit purposes.

Tips 1:

As a designer, screen time is inevitable in both remote consultations and digital presentations. If you’re upgrading your workspace, consider integrating practical lighting design that minimizes glare, which alongside HSA-eligible prescription eyewear, can further reduce digital eye strain. For tailored workspace suggestions, tools such as a professional office layout planner can help optimize both aesthetics and ergonomics in your home office environment.

FAQ

Q: Are prescription blue light glasses HSA eligible?

A: Yes, if the blue light glasses include a prescription for vision correction, they are typically HSA eligible.

Q: Can I buy non-prescription blue light glasses with my HSA?

A: No, most non-prescription blue light glasses are not HSA eligible because they do not address a diagnosed medical condition.

Q: Is a letter of medical necessity required for blue light glasses?

A: For non-prescription blue light glasses, even with a letter, it’s unlikely to be accepted, but always check with your HSA provider.

Q: What documentation is needed to buy blue light glasses with HSA funds?

A: You’ll need a valid prescription and a receipt showing your purchase if audited.

Q: Can HSA be used for other vision products?

A: HSA funds can be used for prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and eye exams, as long as they are recommended by a healthcare provider.