With just weeks left in the year, now is a perfect time to review your spending accounts. If you have a flexible spending account (FSA) through your employer, take a moment to check whether you’re on track to use the funds you’ve allocated. Since FSA dollars are typically “use it or lose it,” you may need to spend them before year-end to avoid forfeiting any remaining balance. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of having an FSA and share smart tips for using your funds before they expire.
What are the benefits of an FSA?
An FSA allows you to set aside extra dollars pre-tax to cover qualified health expenses. You can use your FSA dollars to cover out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles, copays, dental and vision care, or to cover surprise costs that arise.
Smart tips for using up FSA dollars
If you still have unused FSA funds, here are some smart ways to spend them before they expire.
-
- Stock up on everyday essentials. One of the easiest ways to use your FSA funds is by purchasing eligible over-the-counter (OTC) products. Before year end, consider stocking up on items such as:
-
-
- Pain relievers
- Allergy medications
- Cold and flu remedies
- Menstrual care products
- First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptics)
- Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)
- Contact lenses and solution
- Reading glasses or prescription eyewear
-
-
- Schedule health appointments or procedures. If you’ve been putting off routine care or certain procedures, now is a perfect time to book those appointments. Your FSA can help cover or assist with copays, deductibles and coinsurance for:
- Dental cleanings, fillings, or crowns.
- Eye exams and prescription glasses.
- Mental health or therapy appointments.
- Physical therapy or chiropractic care.
- Annual physicals and lab work.
- Specialist visits (dermatology, podiatry, etc.).
- Schedule health appointments or procedures. If you’ve been putting off routine care or certain procedures, now is a perfect time to book those appointments. Your FSA can help cover or assist with copays, deductibles and coinsurance for:
-
- Purchase wellness devices or equipment. FSA funds can be used for a variety of at-home equipment. If thinking about buying larger items
- Blood pressure monitors.
- Body scales.
- Glucose test strips.
- Hearing aids.
- Heating pads or ice packs.
- Smart thermometers.
- Walkers, canes or wheelchairs.
- Purchase wellness devices or equipment. FSA funds can be used for a variety of at-home equipment. If thinking about buying larger items
Monitoring your FSA balances and paying with your prepaid debit card
If you have an FSA account with Meritain Health, you can easily monitor your balance through your online member account. Here you can:
-
- Check your current balance
- Submit claims and upload receipts
- View eligible expenses
- Set reminders for deadlines
Logging in now can help you stay on top of how much you’ve spent and plan any remaining purchases or appointments more effectively. If you’re ready to make a purchase, simply use your prepaid benefits debit card to pay for eligible items.
Conclusion: Don’t let your FSA funds go to waste
Your FSA is a powerful tool for saving on health care costs — but only if you use it. With the end of the year fast approaching, now is the time to act. Review your balance, understand your plan’s rules and start spending on the care and the products you need.
Whether it’s a dental visit, a new pair of glasses, or a properly stocked medicine cabinet, your FSA can help you finish the year healthier and strong.
