Unlock the Potential of Your FSA this Holiday Season
Surprisingly, FSA dollars can be spent on splurge-worthy items like treadmills, massage guns and light therapy devices. You can even shop at Amazon or several other stores with your money — there are designated FSA shops on most major retailers’ websites with a slew of eligible items.
During open enrollment, many employers give workers the option to sign up for a Flexible Spending Account, also known as a flexible spending arrangement. This account allows you to use tax-free dollars to pay for medical-related expenses and products. For 2024, you can contribute up to $3,200 (it goes up to $3,300 in 2025), per the IRS. Employers can also match up to $3,200, for a max of $6,400. Unlike a health savings account, funds from your FSA typically don’t roll over into the next year, though some plans allow up to $660 to be carried over into 2025, so it’s worth checking. Otherwise, any amount you’ve saved needs to be spent before the end of the year on qualifying expenses so you don’t lose it.
Keep your FSA card handy, because there are a ton of stores where you can shop. They include:
Surprising things you can buy with your FSA money. These days, health-related products truly run the gamut, and you can even pay for some shiny new tech with your tax-free dollars. Even better, many of the products below have been vetted by Yahoo experts, including the Renpho massage gun, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill and the Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon.
Massage devices
Amazon. Who doesn’t love getting a massage without making an appointment three months in advance? These devices can be a game-changer after an intense workout or a long day on your feet. This Renpho topped our best massage guns list, with Yahoo Senior Tech Writer Rick Broida calling it “very powerful.” “This product has completely changed my recovery in a night and day difference,” an Amazon reviewer said. “It’s fairly quiet, has plenty of settings and attachments, and I’ve never had any issues with it or its battery life. It’s got some weight to it, just enough to know that it’s good quality but not so much that it’s too much.” $100 at Amazon.
More FSA-eligible massage devices: There are various other massage devices available that can provide excellent relief. Some offer different massage intensities and techniques to suit individual needs. They can be a great addition to your self-care routine and help you relax after a long day.
Fitness trackers
Target. If you want to get a head start on your fitness resolutions, today’s the perfect day to begin. And you can even leave the bulky smartwatches in the past because the Oura Ring can track your sleep, heart health and of course, your daily steps and calories burned. “Wish I’d made the switch sooner,” said a convert. “It holds a charge well, and the data is easy to navigate using the app. The ring is comfortable and durable. I haven’t purchased a cover for it, but it hasn’t scratched yet during barbell movements which was something I was concerned about. I most like the detailed sleep data the ring provides as well as monthly cycle tracking. If you enjoy walking or running, it also has a feature to track your route and distance.” $349 at Target.
More FSA-eligible fitness trackers and devices: There are different models of fitness trackers available that offer various features such as heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, and activity tracking. They can help you stay motivated and on track with your fitness goals.
Skin-care items
Amazon. Sunscreen is a must-have when it comes to your daily skincare routine — yes, even when it’s cloudy out. But you don’t have to slather your face with a streaky white goo that never seems to blend in. Instead, try a tinted sunscreen like this Supergoop option. It’s a go-to that doesn’t leave you looking like Casper the friendly ghost. One reviewer commented, “My second tube. Not only does it provide great sun protection, but makes my skin look luminous. People often ask what I am wearing, and can’t believe it is a sunscreen. My 21-year-old granddaughter also swears by it.” $38 at Amazon.
More FSA-eligible skin-care items: There are a wide range of skin-care products available that can help keep your skin healthy and looking good. From moisturizers to serums, there are options to suit different skin types and concerns.
Light therapy devices
Amazon. Light therapy for skin has become extremely popular in the last few years. This mask is designed to help smooth wrinkles, diminish discoloration and clear acne, all with the power of red and blue LEDs. “I know a lot of people are skeptical about this technology but I love it!” said a fan. “I believe it is helping to target fine lines and discoloration. I have one spot I have my eye on and I’m hopeful, it’s gradually disappearing.” Related: The best LED face mask of 2024. $455 at Amazon.
More FSA-eligible light therapy devices: These devices use advanced technology to provide targeted treatment for various skin issues. They can be a great addition to your skincare routine and help improve the appearance of your skin.
Teeth whitening kits and oral health products
FSA Store. Coffee and wine can wreak havoc on your pearly whites – but don’t worry, it’s not permanent. You can zap away those stains with a whitening kit like this light therapy system. While it’s designed to help gum health, customers rave about the stains lifting from their teeth. “You know that feeling of extra clean you get when you leave the dentist’s office?” wrote a fan. “My mouth feels like that after I use this. It’s pretty easy to put in and leave there without thinking about it, and a full charge lasts more than a few sessions, so I’m happy with it and definitely going to keep using it.” $80 at FSA Store.
More FSA-eligible oral health options: There are various oral health products available that can help maintain good oral hygiene and improve the health of your teeth and gums. From toothbrushes to mouthwashes, there are options to suit your needs.
Essentials for parents and babies
Target. Everyone says you get more sleep when your baby goes into their own room, but I personally lost sleep as I constantly checked on mine. What I wish I’d had was something like this Owlet sock — it sends alerts to your phone if it detects things like low oxygen in your sleeping baby. “The only reason I’ve gotten any sleep as a new mom,” raved this reviewer. “I spent the first week home with our baby not sleeping at all due to my anxiety and the need to constantly check on her while she slept. The app gives accurate readings and information, and I’ve never received a false alarm. I’m promptly notified if the sock has a placement issue and needs to be adjusted, but that doesn’t happen often. The sock fits baby’s foot well and comes with multiple sizes. This product is absolutely worth the cost. You cannot put a price on peace of mind.” $300 at Target.
More FSA-eligible essentials for parents: There are various products available for parents and babies that can make life easier and more comfortable. From baby monitors to cribs, there are options to suit your needs as a parent.