Are Period Underwear FSA or HSA Eligible? Here's What You Need to Know

If you're in the US and have a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account, you might be sitting on pre-tax dollars that could be going toward your period care , including period underwear. Here's the straightforward answer and everything you need to know.

The Short Answer:

Yes, Period underwear is generally FSA and HSA eligible in the United States. Since the passage of the CARES Act in 2020, menstrual care products have been classified as qualified medical expenses for FSA and HSA purposes. This includes pads, tampons, menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and yes, period underwear.

What Are FSA and HSA Accounts?

FSA (Flexible Spending Account)

An FSA is an employer-sponsored benefit that lets you set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses. Funds must generally be used within the plan year (some plans allow a rollover or grace period).

HSA (Health Savings Account)

An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account available to people enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). HSA funds roll over year to year and can be invested, often considered the more flexible option.

How the CARES Act Changed Things

Before the CARES Act of 2020, menstrual products were not considered qualified medical expenses. The CARES Act permanently changed this, classifying menstrual care products as legitimate medical expenses, recognising that period care is a healthcare need, not a luxury.

How to Use FSA/HSA for Period Underwear

• Direct payment: If the retailer accepts FSA/HSA cards (a growing number do), you can pay directly at checkout using your card.

• Reimbursement: Purchase the period underwear with a regular payment method, then submit your receipt through your FSA/HSA administrator. Keep your receipt.

• Online retailers: Many online period underwear retailers now explicitly accept FSA/HSA cards or have FSA/HSA eligible product categories.

A Few Things to Check

While the CARES Act made menstrual products broadly eligible, it's worth checking with your specific FSA or HSA plan administrator, as coverage and processes can vary slightly between providers.

Why It's Worth Using FSA/HSA for Period Underwear

Period underwear is an investment, a quality pair costs more upfront than a box of tampons, but lasts 2-3 years with proper care. Using pre-tax FSA or HSA dollars reduces the out-of-pocket cost significantly, making the switch to reusable period care more financially accessible.

Boody's Period & Leak Proof Underwear is made from certified bamboo viscose, breathable, hypoallergenic, and built to last. Using FSA or HSA funds to invest in a quality set is a genuinely smart use of your pre-tax healthcare dollars.

 

SHOP PERIOD & LEAK-PROOF UNDERWEAR

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What menstrual products are FSA eligible?

Since the CARES Act 2020: pads, tampons, menstrual cups, menstrual discs, period underwear, and similar products are all FSA eligible.

Can I use my HSA for period underwear?

Yes, HSA funds can be used for menstrual care products including period underwear under the CARES Act.

Do I need a prescription for FSA-eligible period underwear?

No, you dont need a prescription for FSA-eligible period underwear. Menstrual care products are over-the-counter FSA/HSA eligible items, no prescription needed.

How do I submit for FSA reimbursement?

You can submit for FSA reimbursement by keeping your purchase receipt, then submit it through your FSA administrator's portal or app. Most now have straightforward online submission processes.