HSA/FSA

Can You Use HSA/FSA For Weight Loss Programs?

Tip the scales in your favor — get support for weight loss programs with help from your HSA or FSA.

December 19, 2024

Sam O'Keefe Co-Founder and CEO of Flex
Sam O'Keefe
Co-founder & CEO of Flex
Flex - Can You Use HSA/FSA For Weight Loss Programs?
Flex - Can You Use HSA/FSA For Weight Loss Programs?

Overview

Overview

Overview

 “Obesity is at a crisis point,” according to a recent study in the medical journal, the Lancet. Today, over 100 million American adults grapple with obesity — more than 2 in 5 adults — and the number is expected to double by 2050.

Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) over 30 while overweight is between 25 and 29.9. Elevated BMIs are among the fastest-growing risk factors for early death or disability in the United States.

For many who are obese or overweight, starting a weight loss journey is about reclaiming their lives and reducing the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It can ease the burden on their budget too, annual medical costs for adults with obesity are nearly $2,000 higher per person than adults with healthy weight.

Luckily, Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can make this journey achievable and more affordable. Read on to learn how HSAs and FSAs can lighten the load for weight loss programs, literally and financially.

The Skinny on Weight Loss Programs

Weight loss programs are designed to help you shed excess weight, improve your health, and feel your best. These programs vary widely in approach, cost, and effectiveness — choosing one that aligns with your lifestyle and goals is a must for success.

What are weight loss programs?

Weight loss programs come in many shapes and sizes, from meal plans and supplements to behavioral coaching, and even hypnosis. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:

  • WeightWatchers (WW): A points-based system focused on balanced eating and community support.

  • Noom: A digital platform that emphasizes behavior change and psychological insights.

  • Optavia: A structured program that combines meal replacements with coaching.

  • Hers: Weight loss products and treatments tailored for women.

  • Nutrisystem: A meal delivery service with pre-portioned meals.

  • Jenny Craig: Personalized meal plans with one-on-one coaching.

  • Calibrate: A medically supervised program focusing on metabolic health.

  • SlimFast: A meal replacement shake program for quick, convenient weight loss.

Each of these programs caters to different needs and preferences, and incorporates different strategies. Make sure to do your research before making your pick.

Why might you consider a weight loss program?

The best thing about weight loss programs is that they provide structure, support, and accountability, which generally helps keep people on track when the journey gets tough. 

They’re designed to help you:

What should you look for in a weight loss program?

When choosing the right weight loss program, there are several questions that you should ask yourself:

  1. Does the program cater to your unique needs and goals?

  2. Can you maintain the plan long-term?

  3. Is the program backed by scientific research?

  4. Is the program affordable and worth the investment?

  5. Does it offer guidance from experts or a supportive community?

If a program ticks all the boxes, give it a shot!

What’s the difference between commercial and clinical programs?

Commercial programs focus on general weight loss and lifestyle changes, often delivered through apps, meal plans, or group support (e.g., Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem).

Clinical programs, on the other hand, are medically supervised and target specific health conditions like obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. These may involve prescription medications or surgery and often require a doctor’s recommendation.

Can You Use HSA/FSA for Weight Loss Programs?

The short answer is yes — with certain conditions. 

Weight loss programs can only be reimbursed through HSA/FSA if prescribed to treat a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician. According to IRS guidance (March 17, 2023), the cost of a weight loss program is considered a medical expense if it treats a diagnosed disease, such as such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease  

However, programs made for general wellness or cosmetic purposes are not eligible.

Can I get reimbursed for food or beverages purchased for weight loss?

Food and beverages related to weight loss may qualify if they meet the following three conditions:

  1. They do not satisfy normal nutritional needs.

  2. They alleviate or treat an illness.

  3. A physician substantiates the need.

The reimbursable amount is limited to the cost exceeding that of regular food or beverages. If these criteria are not met, the expense won’t qualify.

Can I use my HSA for weight loss surgery?

Yes, weight loss surgeries such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy are HSA-eligible if prescribed to treat a qualifying medical condition like obesity or diabetes. A physician’s recommendation is required.

Can you use HSA for weight loss injections?

Weight loss injections like semaglutide (e.g., Wegovy, Ozempic) may be HSA-eligible if prescribed by your doctor for a diagnosed condition. These medications often address metabolic issues related to obesity or diabetes.

Are there any HSA-approved weight loss pills?

Some prescription weight loss pills may qualify for HSA reimbursement when prescribed for a medical condition. OTC supplements without a doctor’s recommendation do not qualify.

What are some HSA-approved weight-loss products?

Other HSA-eligible weight loss products may include:

Always check with your HSA/FSA administrator to confirm eligibility.

What May Qualify a Weight Loss Program to Be HSA or FSA Eligible?

Your doctor may suggest a weight loss program to manage or treat specific conditions, including:

  • Acid reflux

  • Arthritis

  • Back pain

  • Heart disease

  • Hypertension

  • Obesity

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

  • Type 2 diabetes

If weight loss is deemed medically necessary, your program may qualify for reimbursement.

Partners in Your Weight Loss Journey

Lumen

Lumen’s metabolism tracker provides essential insights into your body’s metabolic health, which can help you tailor your weight loss journey. Best of all, it’s HSA/FSA-eligible.

Body Composition Scales

Track your progress with body composition scales, which measure fat, muscle, and water percentages and other good-to-know fat loss metrics. Some models from brands like Hume, FitTrack, and Tanita are HSA/FSA-eligible.

How Flex Can Help You Pay for Weight Loss Programs with Your HSA/FSA

When it comes to simplifying the use of your HSA or FSA, Flex punches way above its weight. Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Add the HSA/FSA-eligible program or device you want to your cart

Flex partners with brands like Lumen, Hume, FitTrack, and Tanita to streamline paying for HSA/FSA-eligible weight loss programs and devices.

Step 2: Select “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" at checkout

And that’s it! You can buy these items directly from the companies by selecting “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" as your payment option at checkout. 

You can then use either your HSA/FSA card to pay directly or pay out-of-pocket with a regular credit or debit card (and receive the required documents to submit for reimbursement via email).

Slim Down and Save: Your Weight Loss Goals Made Affordable

Your health is your wealth, and with HSA and FSA funds, a weight loss program can also be a smart financial decision. 

Whether it’s a tailored meal plan or a medically supervised treatment, the right program can transform your life. Take the first step — consult your doctor, explore your options, and let your HSA or FSA work for you. Time to reclaim your health, one eligible expense at a time.

 “Obesity is at a crisis point,” according to a recent study in the medical journal, the Lancet. Today, over 100 million American adults grapple with obesity — more than 2 in 5 adults — and the number is expected to double by 2050.

Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) over 30 while overweight is between 25 and 29.9. Elevated BMIs are among the fastest-growing risk factors for early death or disability in the United States.

For many who are obese or overweight, starting a weight loss journey is about reclaiming their lives and reducing the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It can ease the burden on their budget too, annual medical costs for adults with obesity are nearly $2,000 higher per person than adults with healthy weight.

Luckily, Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can make this journey achievable and more affordable. Read on to learn how HSAs and FSAs can lighten the load for weight loss programs, literally and financially.

The Skinny on Weight Loss Programs

Weight loss programs are designed to help you shed excess weight, improve your health, and feel your best. These programs vary widely in approach, cost, and effectiveness — choosing one that aligns with your lifestyle and goals is a must for success.

What are weight loss programs?

Weight loss programs come in many shapes and sizes, from meal plans and supplements to behavioral coaching, and even hypnosis. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:

  • WeightWatchers (WW): A points-based system focused on balanced eating and community support.

  • Noom: A digital platform that emphasizes behavior change and psychological insights.

  • Optavia: A structured program that combines meal replacements with coaching.

  • Hers: Weight loss products and treatments tailored for women.

  • Nutrisystem: A meal delivery service with pre-portioned meals.

  • Jenny Craig: Personalized meal plans with one-on-one coaching.

  • Calibrate: A medically supervised program focusing on metabolic health.

  • SlimFast: A meal replacement shake program for quick, convenient weight loss.

Each of these programs caters to different needs and preferences, and incorporates different strategies. Make sure to do your research before making your pick.

Why might you consider a weight loss program?

The best thing about weight loss programs is that they provide structure, support, and accountability, which generally helps keep people on track when the journey gets tough. 

They’re designed to help you:

What should you look for in a weight loss program?

When choosing the right weight loss program, there are several questions that you should ask yourself:

  1. Does the program cater to your unique needs and goals?

  2. Can you maintain the plan long-term?

  3. Is the program backed by scientific research?

  4. Is the program affordable and worth the investment?

  5. Does it offer guidance from experts or a supportive community?

If a program ticks all the boxes, give it a shot!

What’s the difference between commercial and clinical programs?

Commercial programs focus on general weight loss and lifestyle changes, often delivered through apps, meal plans, or group support (e.g., Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem).

Clinical programs, on the other hand, are medically supervised and target specific health conditions like obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. These may involve prescription medications or surgery and often require a doctor’s recommendation.

Can You Use HSA/FSA for Weight Loss Programs?

The short answer is yes — with certain conditions. 

Weight loss programs can only be reimbursed through HSA/FSA if prescribed to treat a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician. According to IRS guidance (March 17, 2023), the cost of a weight loss program is considered a medical expense if it treats a diagnosed disease, such as such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease  

However, programs made for general wellness or cosmetic purposes are not eligible.

Can I get reimbursed for food or beverages purchased for weight loss?

Food and beverages related to weight loss may qualify if they meet the following three conditions:

  1. They do not satisfy normal nutritional needs.

  2. They alleviate or treat an illness.

  3. A physician substantiates the need.

The reimbursable amount is limited to the cost exceeding that of regular food or beverages. If these criteria are not met, the expense won’t qualify.

Can I use my HSA for weight loss surgery?

Yes, weight loss surgeries such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy are HSA-eligible if prescribed to treat a qualifying medical condition like obesity or diabetes. A physician’s recommendation is required.

Can you use HSA for weight loss injections?

Weight loss injections like semaglutide (e.g., Wegovy, Ozempic) may be HSA-eligible if prescribed by your doctor for a diagnosed condition. These medications often address metabolic issues related to obesity or diabetes.

Are there any HSA-approved weight loss pills?

Some prescription weight loss pills may qualify for HSA reimbursement when prescribed for a medical condition. OTC supplements without a doctor’s recommendation do not qualify.

What are some HSA-approved weight-loss products?

Other HSA-eligible weight loss products may include:

Always check with your HSA/FSA administrator to confirm eligibility.

What May Qualify a Weight Loss Program to Be HSA or FSA Eligible?

Your doctor may suggest a weight loss program to manage or treat specific conditions, including:

  • Acid reflux

  • Arthritis

  • Back pain

  • Heart disease

  • Hypertension

  • Obesity

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

  • Type 2 diabetes

If weight loss is deemed medically necessary, your program may qualify for reimbursement.

Partners in Your Weight Loss Journey

Lumen

Lumen’s metabolism tracker provides essential insights into your body’s metabolic health, which can help you tailor your weight loss journey. Best of all, it’s HSA/FSA-eligible.

Body Composition Scales

Track your progress with body composition scales, which measure fat, muscle, and water percentages and other good-to-know fat loss metrics. Some models from brands like Hume, FitTrack, and Tanita are HSA/FSA-eligible.

How Flex Can Help You Pay for Weight Loss Programs with Your HSA/FSA

When it comes to simplifying the use of your HSA or FSA, Flex punches way above its weight. Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Add the HSA/FSA-eligible program or device you want to your cart

Flex partners with brands like Lumen, Hume, FitTrack, and Tanita to streamline paying for HSA/FSA-eligible weight loss programs and devices.

Step 2: Select “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" at checkout

And that’s it! You can buy these items directly from the companies by selecting “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" as your payment option at checkout. 

You can then use either your HSA/FSA card to pay directly or pay out-of-pocket with a regular credit or debit card (and receive the required documents to submit for reimbursement via email).

Slim Down and Save: Your Weight Loss Goals Made Affordable

Your health is your wealth, and with HSA and FSA funds, a weight loss program can also be a smart financial decision. 

Whether it’s a tailored meal plan or a medically supervised treatment, the right program can transform your life. Take the first step — consult your doctor, explore your options, and let your HSA or FSA work for you. Time to reclaim your health, one eligible expense at a time.

Flex is the easiest way for direct to consumer brands and retailers to accept HSA/FSA for their products. From fitness and nutrition, to sleep and mental health, Flex takes a holistic view of healthcare and enables consumers to use their pre-tax money to do the same.