FSA / HRA / HSA Question of the Week

Sunscreen and Health FSA

An employee says they use sunscreen daily and wants to be reimbursed for the cost from their Health FSA. Is this allowed?

1 min read By BAS Knowledge Team
A white piggy bank with FSA written in red beside a stethoscope and calculator on a wooden desk

Q: An employee says they use sunscreen daily and wants to be reimbursed for the cost from their Health FSA. Is this allowed?

A: Yes, sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection is generally eligible for reimbursement through a Health Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Because sunscreen helps prevent sun damage and skin cancer, it is considered an eligible medical expense. You do not need a prescription or a letter of medical necessity.

However, tanning oils, cosmetic lotions, and moisturizers without qualifying sun protection are generally not eligible.

Remember to keep your itemized receipt and check your FSA plan’s reimbursement requirements.

Benefit Allocation Systems (BAS) provides online solutions for: Employee Benefits Enrollment; COBRA; Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs); Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRAs); Leave of Absence Premium Billing (LOA); Affordable Care Act Record Keeping, Compliance & IRS Reporting (ACA); Group Insurance Premium Billing; Property & Casualty Premium Billing; and Payroll Integration.

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This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, tax, or benefits advice. Readers should not rely on this information for taking (or not taking) any action relating to employment, compliance, or benefits. Always consult with a qualified professional before making decisions based on this content.

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Question of the Week FSA

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