The year may be over, but depending on your employer's policies, you may still be able to use the remaining funds from your 2019 flexible spending account (FSA). Some companies offer a grace period in which employees can incur new expenses [1] until March 15, instead of forfeiting any money that was left in the account at the end of the previous year.
Not sure what to get with the time you have left? We've compiled a list of FSA-eligible expenses [2], many of which you can purchase without a prescription or a visit to your doctor's office. Now go get that money!
First Aid and Injuries
These types of supplies are useful for most anyone, but they're rarely covered under insurance plans. Squirrel them away now, so you're fully stocked later.
- Thermometer
- First-aid kits
- Bandages
- Gauze
- Hot and cold packs
- Heating pads and wraps
- Athletic braces
- Kinesiology tape
- Shoe insoles
Skin Care
Skin care is a must, especially if you're prone to dry or oily skin. Plus, you're going to need lots of sunscreen come Summer.
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Acne medications
Travel Essentials
Planning any fun trips this year? Grab whatever you need to travel comfortably.
- Travel pillows
- Motion sickness aids
- Compression socks
Dental
If you've been putting off getting work done, now's the perfect time to book an appointment.
- Teeth cleaning
- Fluoride treatment
- Fillings
- Night guards
- Orthodontics
Vision
If you weren't blessed with perfect vision, you know how quickly the costs can add up. Get some lenses or book an exam with your leftover FSA funds.
- Eye exam
- Glasses
- Prescription sunglasses
- Contacts
- Contact lens solution
- Contact lens case
- Eyewear repair kits and accessories
- Lasik
Over-the-Counter Medications
You'll need a prescription for these expenses to be eligible, but if you don't mind a quick visit to the doctor, it's worth stocking up.
- Pain relievers
- Antihistamines
- Nasal spray
- Cold remedies
- Antacids
- Probiotics
Birth Control
Depending on your birth control method, you may need a prescription and even a doctor's appointment. Now's as good a time as any!
- Condoms
- Birth control pills
- Contraceptive patch
- Vaginal rings
- Birth control implant
- Intrauterine devices
- Diaphragms