Q&A: Participants: Eligible Expenses
« BackQuestion: Are health club dues, spas, or yoga sessions eligible under the Health FSA?
Answer:
In almost every case, no.
Expenses incurred merely to improve the taxpayer's general health are not reimbursable by an FSA when unrelated to a treatment plan for a specific illness or injury.
The term "medical care" is defined by Treas. Reg Section 1.213-1(e)(1)(i) to include expenditures incurred "for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body... primarily for and essential to medical care."
Health spa memberships and exercise programs, even when prescribed by a physician, are not reimbursable by a FSA, absent physician substantiation that the expense was primarily for or essential to specific medical care.
This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. It is provided with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.
Some portions of an answer may reflect the specific administrative practices of our firm, and may not be universally applicable to all flexible benefit plans.
If you have further questions, please email us.