Use of HSA or FSA funds for homebirth supplies

[CookAMH]

Has anyone used their HSA or FSA for the birth kit or tub rental? 

[Caitlin0919]

I had never even though about that! I would be very interested to know about this as well. We have a FSA and if we could use it to buy some homebirth supplies, that would be awesome! I'll be watching this thread

[womenswisdom]

Not anymore.  Unfortunately, after the first of the year, any OTC medical supplies must be prescribed in order to qualify for an FSA or HSA.

http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=227308,00.html

[CookAMH]

According to this particular FAQ though, it could fall under this.

Q. How does this change affect over-the-counter medical devices and supplies?

A. The new rule does not apply to items for medical care that are not medicines or drugs. Thus, equipment such as crutches, supplies such as bandages, and diagnostic devices such as blood sugar test kits will still qualify for reimbursement by a health FSA or HRA if purchased after Dec. 31, 2010, and a distribution from an HSA or Archer MSA for the cost of such items will still be tax-free, regardless of whether the items are purchased using a prescription.

[MoonJelly]

That doesn't mean they won't be covered.  They may or may not but first you need a form or letter from your practioner, and then submit the receipt for reimbursement instead of just being able to use the flex card to pay outright. 

 

Originally Posted by womenswisdom 

Not anymore.  Unfortunately, after the first of the year, any OTC medical supplies must be prescribed in order to qualify for an FSA or HSA.

http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=227308,00.html