Key takeaways.
- Yes. — you can use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses, and eye exams.
- Eligible items must meet the rule of medical necessity, meaning they correct or treat a vision problem.
- You can typically use your FSA/HSA debit card at checkout or pay out of pocket and request reimbursement with an itemized receipt. For Even G1, you can submit for reimbursement.
- FSAs often have a "use-it-or-lose-it" rule at the end of each plan year, while HSAs allow funds to roll over.
- Non-prescription or primarily cosmetic eyewear is not eligible.
Introduction.
If you own an FSA or HSA, a common question is: Can I use these funds for prescription glasses? The answer is yes. Both accounts exist to help cover medical expenses with pre-tax dollars, and prescription eyewear squarely qualifies.
In this guide, we'll explain how FSAs and HSAs work, which eyewear and related vision expenses are eligible, and how to best navigate deadlines and reimbursements to avoid losing money.
Understanding FSAs and HSAs.
What is a flexible spending account (FSA)?
- An FSA is an employer-sponsored account where you set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses.
- Contributions come directly out of your paycheck.
- FSAs are subject to the "use it or lose it" rule: unused funds generally vanish at the end of your plan year, though employers may allow a short grace period or a small rollover.
- You can learn more on Healthcare.gov's FSA overview.
What is a health savings account (HSA)?
- An HSA is available only with a high-deductible health plan (HDHP).
- You own the account — it's portable if you change jobs.
- Unlike FSAs, funds roll over indefinitely.
- HSAs can also be invested, allowing balances to grow tax-free over time.
Quick comparison.
| Feature | FSA | HSA |
|---|---|---|
| Who sets it up | Employer | You (must have HDHP) |
| Rollover | Limited or none | Unlimited rollover |
| Portability | Not portable | Fully portable |
| Investments | No | Yes, often |
What vision costs are eligible?
The IRS defines eligible expenses as those that are medically necessary to correct or treat vision.
Covered.
- Prescription eyeglasses (frames + lenses).
- Prescription sunglasses.
- Contact lenses (daily wear, multifocal, toric, etc.).
- Contact lens supplies (saline solutions, disinfecting solution, storage cases).
- Reading glasses (both OTC and custom prescription).
- Lens replacements: updating lenses in existing frames.
- Specialty lenses/add-ons (anti-reflective coating, high-index lenses, photochromic lenses, blue-light filters if prescribed).
- Eye exams (including copays).
- Corrective eye surgeries such as LASIK or PRK.
Not covered.
- Non-prescription eyeglasses or sunglasses (for fashion or sun only).
- Cosmetic contact lenses (e.g., color-change lenses without vision correction).
- Vision insurance premiums or warranties for eyewear.
- Non-medical accessories (cosmetic only).
Rule of thumb: If it restores or corrects vision, it's usually eligible. If it's cosmetic or just convenience, it's usually not.
How to use FSA/HSA funds for glasses.
You can typically pay for glasses in two ways:
- Pay directly with your FSA/HSA debit card at checkout when the merchant accepts it. The charge will be automatically deducted from your balance.
- Reimbursement method: If the merchant does not accept FSA/HSA cards, pay out of pocket and then submit a claim to your FSA/HSA administrator for reimbursement from your account. This involves filling out a form and providing an itemized receipt.
For Even G1, it's done by reimbursement method. You can read our guide on using FSA/HSA and insurance for smart glasses.
Strategies to maximize your FSA/HSA.
- Plan ahead. Especially with FSAs, track your balance as deadlines approach. Many people forget they can use leftover funds for prescription sunglasses or spare glasses.
- Schedule eye exams early. This ensures enough time to order glasses before year-end rushes.
- Backup pairs. If funds remain, consider a second set of frames or lenses for emergencies.
- Coordinate with insurance. Use your vision insurance first, then apply FSA/HSA funds to copays, deductibles, or the portion insurance doesn't cover.
- Cover your family. FSAs and HSAs typically cover eligible expenses for your spouse and dependents too.
Beyond glasses: other eligible vision care.
- Eye exams and routine checkups.
- Contact lenses and supplies.
- Corrective eye surgery (LASIK, PRK).
- Magnifiers or other prescription-required visual aids.
For the full official list, see IRS Publication 502: Medical and Dental Expenses.
Conclusion.
Using your FSA or HSA for prescription glasses is one of the smartest ways to stretch your healthcare dollars. It allows you to pay for essential vision correction with pre-tax funds, reducing your taxable income while covering a basic health need.
To recap:
- Prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, and contacts are eligible.
- Non-prescription or cosmetic eyewear is not.
- Keep prescriptions current, track balances (especially FSAs), and save itemized receipts for reimbursement.
By making a simple plan, you can see clearly — without losing money to unused benefits.
FAQs.
Are prescription glasses always FSA/HSA eligible?
Yes, as long as they are prescribed by an eye care professional to correct your vision and are considered a medical necessity, FSA/HSA prescription glasses are eligible. This eligibility extends to various ways you can use your funds, including direct payment with an FSA/HSA card where accepted or by seeking reimbursement from your account. For Even G1, the process is pay first and seek reimbursement.
Do I need a letter of medical necessity (LOMN) for standard prescription glasses? Or for Even G1?
Generally, no. An LOMN is typically required for items that are not inherently medical or might have a dual purpose. Standard prescription glasses are clearly a medical device for vision correction. Similarly, a LOMN is not required for Even G1 prescriptions.
What happens if I return the glasses I bought using my FSA/HSA funds?
Typically, if you paid with an FSA/HSA card at a retailer, the refund will go back to that card. If you paid out-of-pocket and were reimbursed (as with Even G1), the money is already yours, but you would not be able to claim the same expense twice if the purchase is ultimately refunded by the merchant. If the plan year for an FSA has ended, specific rules from your provider and the retailer will apply regarding the return and its effect on your FSA funds.
Can I use my FSA/HSA to buy frames only?
Generally, yes, frames are eligible if they are intended for use with prescription lenses. It is often simpler to purchase the frames and lenses together, but buying frames alone for future prescription use is usually allowed under FSA/HSA guidelines.
Are accessories like glasses cases or cleaning wipes FSA/HSA eligible?
Yes, if they are specifically for the care and maintenance of your prescription eyewear, items like glasses cases, lens cleaning cloths, and solutions are generally eligible.
Can I get my prescription lenses replaced in my current frames using FSA/HSA?
Yes. If you have a new prescription and want to put new prescription lenses into frames you already own, the cost of those new lenses is an eligible FSA/HSA expense.
References.
- Health care options, using a Flexible spending account FSA. (n.d.). HealthCare.gov. https://www.healthcare.gov/have-job-based-coverage/flexible-spending-accounts/
- About publication 502, Medical and dental expenses | Internal Revenue service. (n.d.). https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-502
Legal Disclaimer: The content of this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, financial, or medical advice. While we strive to provide accurate information, the rules and regulations governing Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), including IRS Publication 502, are subject to change and individual plan details can vary. We recommend consulting with your plan administrator, a qualified tax advisor, or legal counsel to understand how these rules apply to your specific circumstances before making any financial decisions.