We Found 25 Things You Didn't Know You Could Spend Your FSA Dollars On
As a result, any extra FSA money tends to be top of mind riiiiight around … now. But if you’re scrambling to use up your remaining dollars before the ball drops, don’t panic. You may think you don’t have anything to spend them on, but we’re here to disabuse you of that notion. The fact is, FSA funds aren’t only for things like co-pays and prescription costs; they can also be used to pay for a wide range of medical, dental, and vision expenses that aren’t covered by insurance.
“With the rising preventive health movement happening among Americans today, consumers will be excited to know that they may be able to use FSA dollars on a wider variety of products and services that not only treat current conditions or needs, but can proactively prevent chronic conditions and help us stay healthy,” says Calley Means, cofounder of Truemed, an online FSA-HSA store.
To help you make the most of your FSA funds — and get some seriously good stuff that you can really use — we’ve found 25 surprisingly FSA-eligible categories to consider. Happy spending.
Wearable Tech

The Oura Ring
The Oura Ring has done the near-impossible: made something genuinely good for your health actually look cool. Wear yours to collect data on more than 50 health and wellness metrics that directly impact your well-being.
You may also like: Whoop
For data that’s more focused on athletic performance, try the Whoop — a band that you wear on your wrist, which gathers info and then offers deep dives into the data.
Neck Pillows

Cozeo Travel Neck Pillow
Made with high-density memory foam, this pillow contours to your neck and provides 360-degree support to reduce neck, shoulder, and back strain. Even better? It squishes down to 60 percent smaller than its full size, so it’s easy to bring along for the ride.
You may also like: Imak Eye Pillow
Why should your neck get all the comfort? This has soothing ergoBeads that gently massage your eyes as you snooze mid-flight.
Online Therapy

Brightside Health
Brightside Health — which focuses on evidence-based treatments, including therapy and medication management — is a good pick for an online provider. It lets you connect with licensed professionals through secure video sessions and messaging, and it has a convenient app and flexible scheduling. You can read more in our full review of the service.
You may also like: There are a number of other services that are eligible. Check out Talkiatry, Online-Therapy.com, Rula, or Innerwell to see what’s best for you and your needs.
See our full list of the best online therapy platforms in 2025.
Household Expenses

Vicks SpeedRead Digital Thermometer
Is your thermometer working? Do you know where it is? If you answered “no” to one or both of those questions, now’s the time to get a new one. As it gets colder and viruses come calling, you’ll definitely want a thermometer on hand — one that’s functional and easy to locate, that is.
You may also like: A few other household things that you can snag with your FSA money, such as shoe insoles, pill boxes, and even air purifiers and humidifiers. That said, you may need a letter of medical necessity, or LMN, for those.
Sunscreen
If sunscreen is SPF 15 or higher and has broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, it’s eligible for FSA reimbursement. After all, it’s certainly a product that supports your health. It’s also a product you always need more of, and stocking up on it now — even with no beach days on the horizon — is never a bad idea.

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
This powerful little stick goes well beyond the SPF 15 requirement to be exceedingly within bounds for FSA money. It’s also portable, which makes it great for popping in your bag and applying whenever you find yourself in a sunny spot.
You may also like: Black Girl Sunscreen Face and Body Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
For a formula designed specifically for melanin-rich skin that doesn’t leave a white cast, this is a great bet.
Skin Care

Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream
Colloidal oatmeal and ceramides lend this cream its superpowers, strengthening the skin’s natural moisture barrier and relieving minor skin irritations. Plus, the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance gives it well-deserved cred.
You may also like: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Eczema Soothing Relief Cream
This cream is excellent to keep on hand for skin hydration, especially during the winter months.
See our list of the top dermatologist–approved eczema creams in 2025.
Lip Balm and Treatments

Sun Bum Tinted Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 15
This lip balm combines nourishing hydration, sun protection, and a touch of color to be both healthy and cute. It’s enriched with natural ingredients like coconut oil and vitamin E, plus it’s available in five colors with fun names like Nude Beach, Raisin Hell, and Sand Bar.
You may also like: Blistex Medicated Lip Balm SPF 15
Looking for a more medicinal vibe? Blistex delivers every time.
Acne Treatments

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
This product from a cult-favorite brand is designed to remove excess oil and clear acne breakouts without stripping your skin of moisture. It’s appropriate for raised pimples, clogged pores, and sensitive skin.
You may also like: Starface World Hydro-Star Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches
Pimple problem-solving, but make it cute. These teen-approved patches make acne removal a fashion statement.
Foot Creams

Gold Bond Therapeutic Foot Cream
Jojoba oil and peppermint oil add a touch of luxury to this cream, which can be a crucial part of your foot care routine. It provides intensive moisture and relief for dry, rough, and cracked feet. And its non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, keeping your feet feeling soft and healthy.
You may also like: Lotrimin Athlete’s Foot Antifungal Treatment
This helps relieve itching, burning, and cracking caused by athlete’s foot, providing fast-acting relief while also preventing its spread and recurrence.
Oral Care

Sensodyne Repair and Protect Mint Toothpaste
This toothpaste is specifically formulated to provide long-lasting relief for sensitive teeth while actively repairing vulnerable areas. It also contains fluoride, which helps strengthen enamel and protects against cavities, all while delivering a refreshing mint flavor.
You may also like: The Doctor’s Advanced Comfort Night Guard
Nighttime teeth grinding, be gone. This mouth guard ensures comfort throughout the night while protecting teeth from damage. It comes with a storage case that makes it easy to keep clean and store (and hard to lose). Hallelujah.
See our tested list of the best electric toothbrushes in 2025.
Prenatal Vitamins
Still, if your doctor recommends a specific supplement due to a dietary concern or health condition, they can write a letter of medical necessity (LMN) to let you take advantage of your pretax dollars. Now, on to the prenatals.

Olly The Essential Prenatal Multivitamin Gummies
These multivitamins provide essential nutrients, including folate, DHA, and vitamins D and E, in a gummy form. They’re delicious, affordable, and easy to work into your daily routine — and they even feel like a little treat.
You may also like: Nature Made Prenatal Softgels, 60 Count
See our list of the best RD-approved prenatal vitamins in 2025.
Breastfeeding Supplies
Breastfeeding can be a full-time job. And from pumps to nursing pads to nipple cream, it can require a lot of gear. The good news? Your pretax money is on the table to help supply it.

Haakaa Silicone Colostrum Collector Pack
Many breastfeeding parents find this product to be a game-changer, allowing them to effortlessly collect and store colostrum with minimal fuss. The soft, flexible design also means it’s comfortable to use, which can be key for sore nipples.
You may also like: Momcozy Wearable Breast Pump
Wearable pumps are convenient but can be pricey, which can make them a great target for your FSA dollars.
Lice Treatment

Nix Lice Killing Creme Rinse
The go-to for many families battling lice, Nix Lice Killing Creme Rinse eliminates both lice and their eggs in just one treatment. The included nit comb makes it easy to ensure every last critter is removed, and its gentle formula is designed to be safe for parents and kiddos alike.
You may also like: Licefreee Spray!
This spray delivers powerful results by killing head lice, eggs, and even super lice (don’t think about that too hard) on contact.
Medical Education Classes
If you or a loved one, such as your spouse or a dependent, has a chronic health condition, you may be able to learn more about the condition and use your remaining FSA dollars to cover the cost.
FSA funds can be used to pay for medical education classes if the courses are directly related to a condition that you or a dependent is managing or seeking to improve. In other words, you can’t pursue medical knowledge as a hobby, but you can take classes that will make your life easier. Examples include an educational course on managing diabetes, conferences related to chronic health conditions, or childbirth classes. In some cases, a letter of medical necessity can be helpful in obtaining reimbursement for these classes.
Since FSA plan specifics can vary, always check with your FSA administrator to confirm eligibility for medical education courses.
Pain Relief Devices

Omron Max Power Relief TENS Device
The Omron TENS unit is designed to give users more control over their pain management by letting them select settings that work best for their areas of discomfort. It features advanced customization options, including intensity levels of electrical pulses and preset modes tailored for various types of pain.
You May Also Like: Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set
This extra-long mat gently presses into your neck and back to ease muscle tension and offer pain relief.
See our tested list of the best red light therapy devices in 2025.
Travel for Medical Care
To take advantage of this FSA benefit, be sure to keep records of each appointment as well as any applicable receipts. You will need to be able to prove that the travel occurred strictly to access a medical appointment — as opposed to traveling for personal reasons and then going to the doctor while you are out.
Health Monitors

Omron Iron Blood Pressure Monitor
This delivers quick, accurate readings that can give you peace of mind or help you understand where you’re at. It also has irregular heartbeat detection to help you keep an eye on your heartbeat.
You may also like: iHome Digital Scale
Scales count as health monitors, too. You can use your FSA money to upgrade to a digital one that’s more accurate and consistent.
At-Home Testing Kits

iHealth COVID-19, Flu A&B 3-in-1 Antigen Rapid Test
Although the days of testing for COVID-19 at the first sign of a sniffle are behind us, it’s still a good idea to keep COVID-19 and flu tests handy — especially as we head into sick season. These tests give you results in 15 minutes and work for kids ages 2 and up.
You may also like: Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test
This straightforward, at-home way to identify possible food sensitivities may be a useful step in your healthcare.
Cold Plunge Tubs

The Cold Pod Portable Ice Tub
This thing is spacious: It has an 88-gallon capacity and allows for full-body immersion to enhance muscle recovery and reduce soreness. Plus, it comes with a cover that makes it easy to keep it clean and cold.
You may also like: Ice Barrel 300
This one’s designed for comfort. It’s fully insulated, and easy to step in and out of.
Posture Correctors

Mueller Sports Medicine Adjustable Posture Corrector
This posture corrector is designed to promote proper alignment and reduce discomfort by gently encouraging better posture throughout the day. It has a comfortable, adjustable fit, and it offers support for a variety of body types.
You May Also Like: Gaiam Restore Neoprene Posture Corrector
This one is made from neoprene, which is lightweight and good for everyday wear.
Massages
FSA agrees — sort of. In order to use your FSA funds toward a massage therapist, you’ll need a detailed prescription from your doctor that includes frequency of sessions and reasons for the massage, along with a letter of medical necessity. Then, you’ll need to find a certified massage therapist who is recognized as a healthcare professional by the IRS. You can do that by checking your state licensing board for massage therapists or asking your insurance for in-network providers.
If you’d like to take advantage of massage without jumping through those hoops, FSA money does cover at-home massage treatments for autoimmune disorders or chronic pain.

Therabody TheraGun Sense Percussion Massage Gun
This massage device offers customizable dee-tissue relief, helping to alleviate muscle tension and soreness. Plus, with its smart app integration, two color options, and adjustable speed settings, you can tailor your massage experience to suit your needs.
You may also like: Hom Deep Tissue Mini Massage Gun
Powerful relief comes in a compact design with this option, which is a great choice for on-the-go muscle recovery.
Reproductive Health Items

Frida Fertility At-Home Insemination Set
You may also like: Opill Daily Oral Contraceptive
You can also use your FSA money for birth control, like the pill. This one is convenient, over-the-counter, and reliable.
Compression Clothing

Elastique Stirrup Leggings
With proprietary MicroPerle beads that are designed to stimulate lymphatic flow and boost circulation, these leggings can help aid in stability and muscle recovery. The brand also says that wearing them for 45 minutes of exercise three times a week can lead to visibly smoother skin.
You may also like: Vim & Vigr Cotton Compression Socks
These can energize your legs and alleviate achiness and heaviness — and they come in a wide range of colors and designs.
Heating and Cooling Pads

Sunbeam Premium Machine–Washable Heating Pads
Multiple settings let you find the temperature that offers the most pain relief — and also make these easier to use on various parts of your body. The fact that they’re machine-washable is a bonus.
You may also like: ThermaCare Lower Back and Hip Pain–Relief Heat Wraps
These wraps use advanced heat technology to deliver consistent warmth to sore muscles.
First Aid Kits

First Aid Only 299–Piece All–Purpose Emergency First Aid Kit
This kit has you covered. It comes complete with adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic towelettes, burn cream packets, gauze rolls and pads, wound closures, a cold pack, and more.
You may also like: Adventure Medical Kits Sportsman Series Medical Kit
If you like wilderness adventures, this kit is for you. It accommodates up to two people for up to four days while camping, hunting, or fishing.
What to Look for When Signing Up for an FSA
Before signing up for paycheck deductions into an FSA, there are a few factors to consider. You’ll want to think about things like the specifics of your FSA plan, how much you want to contribute, and whether a debit card is offered for the funds.
“If you’re considering opening an FSA, first understand if your employer offers one as part of their employee benefits package. If they offer one, ask if they offer FSA match contributions — many employers will match your contributions dollar for dollar if you have an open account,” says Kevin Robertson, chief revenue officer of HSA Bank.
Similarly, some employers offer a match up to a certain amount, such as $500, which can still be a significant amount for individuals facing today’s rising healthcare costs. Keep in mind, an employer cannot contribute more to an FSA than the employee does. So, it’s important to ask about the specifics of your employer’s match and to be sure that you’re taking advantage of this benefit.
“You should also carefully consider your healthcare needs, so you don’t over-contribute to your account,” Robertson says. Because of the “use it or lose it” rule of FSAs, contributing more than you will spend in a year will result in you forfeiting whatever pretax dollars you invested but didn’t end up using by the end of the year.
Typically, you decide your contribution amounts during open enrollment prior to the beginning of the plan year. So, it’s necessary to estimate how many out-of-pocket expenses you can expect from your insurance plan, as well as what additional health-related costs you may incur on items such as OTC medicines, prescriptions, or dental and vision expenses.
What’s the Difference Between HSA and FSA Funds?
Before signing up for an FSA, be sure to explore all the options available to you, such as a health savings account (HSA). Both FSAs and HSAs let you set aside tax-free dollars to use toward your healthcare expenses.
FAQs
In 2025, the IRS set the maximum contribution limit for an FSA at $3,300, or $275 per month. To determine your contribution amount, add your annual medical-related expenses, such as deductibles and co-pays, and then divide by 12 for monthly paychecks or 26 for biweekly paychecks.
Why Trust Everyday Health

Jana Pollack
Author
Jana Pollack is a freelance writer, editor, and creative strategist with significant experience writing about health, wellness, and lifestyle topics, including mental health, fitness, parenting, and food. She values conversational writing that puts the reader at ease while conveying real value, and always aims to leave the reader feeling calm and prepared to take action.
Previously, she worked for theSkimm and BuzzFeed in their branded content studios, and she has bylines at Romper, Insider, and Jenny Mag. Early in her career, she spent two years as an editorial assistant at UpToDate.
She lives in Boston with her husband and young son, and spends all of her free time reading.

Riley Blanton, MS, LMFT
Author
Riley Blanton, MS, LMFT, is a clinician specializing in reproductive mental health care in Wichita, Kansas, and an experienced freelance health writer. Her articles have covered topics such as mental health, pregnancy, perinatal and postpartum health, abortion care, the foster care system and adoption, women's health, and the care of children with disabilities. Her work has been published in Health, Parents, Verywell Mind, and Verywell Health.
Riley served as the communications director for the Kansas State Chapter of Postpartum Support International, an organization that aims to promote the awareness, education, prevention, and treatment of perinatal mental health issues affecting parents, families, and caregivers and she remains a member of this organization. She is also the founder of the research-based website Postpartum Brain and a private practice, Holding New Therapy, that specializes in perinatal mental health.
She received a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from Friends University, where her thesis focused on the relationship stressors that can arise with child-bearing couples. She also received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Old Dominion University.
In her free time, Riley enjoys reading voraciously, baking with rambunctious toddlers, and writing poetry.

Ashley Ziegler
Editor
Ashley Ziegler is a full-time writer with extensive experience covering women’s health, babies' and kids' health, mental health, and wellness. Her work has appeared on websites including The Bump, Health, Pregnancy & Newborn, People, Parents, Romper, Scary Mommy, and more.
Before transitioning into her full-time writing career, Ashley worked in the departments of pediatric cardiology and general medicine at Duke University Medical Center, and later at the North Carolina Medical Board. During undergrad, she majored in communications at Purdue University and then earned her master’s degree with a concentration in healthcare management from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Ashley lives with her husband and two young daughters in North Carolina. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking, taking barre classes, and catching up on her favorite podcasts.
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