Are supplements HSA eligible?

Thinking about using your HSA to pay for supplements? The rules around supplements and HSAs can be confusing. Let's break down exactly what you can and can't buy with your HSA funds in 2025.

The basic rule about supplements and HSAs

Here's the main thing to know: supplements are only HSA-eligible when your doctor prescribes them to treat a specific medical condition. Taking supplements for general health or wellness? That's not going to work with your HSA.

What the IRS says about supplements

The IRS is pretty clear about this. For a supplement to be HSA-eligible, you need:

• A prescription from your doctor
• A diagnosed medical condition that the supplement treats
• Documentation showing why the supplement is medically necessary
• Specific dosage and treatment instructions

Which supplements might qualify for HSA spending?

Let's look at some common examples. Remember: these supplements only qualify when prescribed by your doctor for a specific condition:

Prescribed supplements that often qualify

• Glucosamine when prescribed for arthritis
• Iron supplements for diagnosed anemia
• Vitamin D for documented deficiency
• Folic acid during pregnancy (with prescription)
• Calcium for osteoporosis treatment
• Melatonin for diagnosed sleep disorders
• Vitamin B12 for proven deficiency

What supplements don't qualify for HSAs

Most supplements you'd grab off the shelf at your local store won't qualify. Here's what's typically not HSA-eligible:

• Daily multivitamins for general health
• Protein powder and workout supplements
• Energy and nutrition bars
• General wellness herbs and supplements
• Over-the-counter vitamins without a prescription
• Weight loss supplements
• Athletic performance supplements

What's new for supplement coverage in 2025?

The IRS has updated some rules this year:

• Stricter documentation requirements for supplement prescriptions
• More detailed medical necessity letters needed
• Specific treatment plans must be documented
• Regular review of ongoing supplement prescriptions required

How to use your HSA for supplements the right way

Want to use your HSA for supplements? Here's your step-by-step guide:

1. Talk to your doctor about your specific health condition
2. Get a written prescription that includes:
   • The specific supplement name
   • Exact dosage instructions
   • How long you should take it
   • Which condition it's treating
3. Ask for a Letter of Medical Necessity if your HSA provider requires it
4. Keep all your paperwork organized

Keep these records handy

Save everything related to your HSA supplement purchases:

• Doctor's prescriptions
• Medical necessity letters
• Purchase receipts
• Documentation of your diagnosis
• Treatment plans and progress notes

Smart tips for supplement expenses

If your supplements aren't HSA-eligible, consider these alternatives:

• Check if your FSA covers them
• Look into prescription discount programs
• Compare prices at different pharmacies
• Ask about manufacturer discount programs
• Consider insurance coverage for prescription supplements