Is Red Light Therapy HSA Eligible?: Discover if you can use your HSA funds for red light therapy

Red light therapy has gained popularity for purposes ranging from skin rejuvenation to muscle recovery, but many people wonder whether the cost of these treatments can be covered using a Health Savings Account (HSA). As of 2024, the eligibility of red light therapy for HSA reimbursement isn’t straightforward. According to IRS guidelines, items or services are only HSA-eligible if primarily intended to diagnose, treat, mitigate, or prevent a specific medical condition and are not considered merely for general well-being. Most over-the-counter red light therapy devices for home use, or treatments at spas and general wellness centers, are not HSA-eligible because they're considered cosmetic or for general health improvement. However, if a physician diagnoses you with a specific medical condition (such as chronic pain, wound healing difficulties, or dermatological disorders) and prescribes red light therapy as part of a treatment plan, you may be able to use your HSA to cover eligible expenses. In these cases, you’ll often need a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from your doctor to submit with your reimbursement claim. Always check with your HSA administrator for your plan’s requirements and keep all documentation in case of an IRS audit.

Tips 1:

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FAQ

Q: Can I pay for red light therapy devices or sessions using HSA funds without a doctor's note?

A: Generally, no. Most over-the-counter red light therapy products and sessions for general wellness are not HSA-eligible unless you have a prescription or a Letter of Medical Necessity from your healthcare provider.

Q: What documentation do I need to make red light therapy HSA-eligible?

A: You’ll usually need a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from your doctor stating that red light therapy is part of your prescribed treatment plan for a specific medical condition.

Q: Are in-office red light therapy treatments HSA-eligible?

A: Treatments conducted as part of a physician-supervised plan and for a diagnosed medical condition may be reimbursable if supported by an LMN.

Q: Is red light therapy for cosmetic purposes, like skin rejuvenation, covered by HSA?

A: No. Cosmetic and general wellness treatments do not qualify for HSA reimbursement.

Q: Where can I verify if my red light therapy expense is HSA-eligible?

A: Always confirm with your HSA provider/admin and review IRS Publication 502 for the most current guidelines.