Sharing the best ways to use FSA and HSA funds before they expire.
Hello friends! what are you doing I hope your morning is off to a good start! We are in full holiday mode here. I’m really trying to finish everything this week. I started the holiday baking but it’s all eaten lol so I’m starting over (and saving some in the garage freezer!).
I am also starting to plan for the new year and the content of 2026. I am so excited for everything that is coming this next year!
For today’s post, I wanted to share some tips on how to use your FSA and HSA funds before they expire, since I know many of you are also in vacation mode and it may not be on your radar. (We don’t have these accounts, but it’s something I’m exploring in the new year as we love wellness essentials and lab testing). I’m also tempted to start it because this is the first thing i would buy.
The reality is that every year, thousands of people leave money on the table simply because they aren’t sure what qualifies for HSA and FSA spending.
The good news is that there are so many smart, legal ways to use these funds to support your health – especially if you focus on prevention, reducing inflammation, balancing hormones and long-term wellness.
I wanted to discuss some of the best ways to use your FSA and HSA money before it expires, including some of my favorite wellness tools, functional health options, and shopping practices that really move the needle on how you feel.
First, a quick refresher: FSA vs. HSA
What is the difference between an FSA and an HSA?
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
– Typically “use it or lose it” until the end of the year
– Sponsorship by the employer
– Covers eligible medical expenses
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
– Funds roll over from year to year
– Available with highly discounted health plans
– Can be used for many of the same eligible expenses
Always check your plan’s specific rules, but the categories below are usually appropriate.
(A little tip: you can change Amazon for FSA/HSA is eligible)
1. Functional health check (a huge opportunity)
One of the best uses of FSA/HSA dollars is testing, especially if you’ve struggled with fatigue, inflammation, gut issues, or hormonal changes.
Eligible exams may include:
– Stress, mood and metabolism tests
– Gut health and microbiome check
Brands like EquiLife offers a wide range of functional home lab tests that are often FSA/HSA eligible – and these tests can give you clarity instead of guesswork.
If you wanted to “find out what’s really going on”, this is a smart place to spend those funds.
2. Support 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 feeling lighter and less inflamed.
Eligible items may include:
– Supplements, incl magnesium, melatonin, adrenal support, Omega 3and multivitamins
A structured detox program (eg this one from EquiLife) can be a strategic, compliant way to use funds that would otherwise expire, especially if inflammation and bloating are ongoing issues for you.
3. Red light healing and restoration tools
This is where people are often surprised.
Many recovery and therapy devices qualify for FSA/HSA use when they are designed to support pain relief, inflammation, circulation, or muscle recovery.
Potential eligible items:
– Red light therapy devices
– Infrared or PEMF recovery tools
– Muscle recovery and pain relief devices (like these compression boots and this foot massage)
Brands like HigherDOSE create wellness tools that support recovery, circulation, and cellular health, and several of their products are usually eligible through FSA/HSA purchases.
If you’re after 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.single.day for breathing and meditation or when I need a little recharge while working on 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 for stress relief, a great sweat, glowing skin and amazing sleep. Use FITNESSISTA15.
Red light face mask. I use it every morning while running errands 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 many reasons. For energy, focus, mood, inflammation, skin, aches, muscle aches, fevers, all things.
4. Fitness & Movement Equipment
Movement is medicine, and some exercise equipment qualifies.
Common eligible items include:
– Resistance bands
– Dumbbells or kettlebells
– Foam rollers
– Balance tools
– Stability balls
If you’re building a home workout facility or upgrading what you already have, your FSA/HSA funds can often be used for durable medical or exercise equipment that supports physical health.
5. Sleep Support & Stress Reduction
Sleep and stress management are fundamental to hormones, metabolism and immune health – and many people don’t realize how many tools go into it.
Eligible items may include:
– Sleep aids and supports
– Oura ring. I love this thing!
– Some relaxation or restorative tools
– Meditation or biofeedback devices
If poor sleep is sapping your energy, this is a great category to explore.
6. Everyday health essentials you’ll be using anyway
Don’t overlook the basics. they add up quickly.
Common essentials that qualify for an FSA/HSA:
– Heating pads or ice packs
– My favorite mold-free coffee
– Pressure gauges
– Glucose monitors (this is the one I use and recommend for customers)
– OTC pain relief and allergy medications
– Prescription sunglasses!!! I love mine so much
Fueling up now can save you money later.
7. Menstrual, hormone & women’s health products
Women often leave many eligible purchases unused.
Often eligible:
– Heating pads for cramps
– Ovulation and fertility trackers
– Some hormone support tools
If you are focused on hormonal balance, this category is worth checking out.
How to Check Eligibility (Quick Tips)
• Look for “FSA/HSA Eligible” labels on product pages
• Use major online stores or FSA/HSA purchases
• Keep receipts just in case
• When in doubt, ask your plan administrator
The rules may vary slightly, but many wellness brands now clearly label the appropriate 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 set you up for a stronger year ahead.
If you’re not sure what would have the most effect on your body, I’m always happy to help discuss it with you. If you have these accounts and are excited about how you spent your money, please share the details with us!
Have a great day and see you soon!
xo
Gina
