The majority of flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) allow spending on massage therapy, and some massage guns are also eligible for FSA/HSA spending. Most demand proof of medical necessity from your primary care physician. This means that you have a better chance of getting your massage paid by your insurance company! A letter from your physician is usually sufficient.
FSAs and HSAs are both tax-advantaged accounts that enable individuals to save funds to meet eligible medical costs. There are some significant variations between the two types of accounts. Let's discuss these incredible accounts and how they can be of great use to you!
What is an HSA?
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are tax-advantaged medical savings accounts for Americans with a high deductible health plan (HDHP). You may use HSA funds to pay for insurance deductibles and other medical expenditures.
In 2019, the yearly cap on contributions to health savings accounts for those covered by only one insurance plan was $3,500. For people covered by family health insurance policies, the maximum yearly HSA contribution is $7,000. HSA funds released to pay for eligible medical expenditures are tax-exempt.
If you withdraw money from your HSA before the age of 65 for unapproved reasons, you are subject to paying a 20% tax on this money. After the age of 65, you are free to access HSA funds without incurring any fees.
What is an FSA?
Employers often set up Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). They are also sometimes referred to as Flexible Spending Arrangements. Typically, they are supported by a pre-tax deduction from the employee's paycheck. Employers may also contribute to their employees' FSAs.
You aren't required to have health insurance to have an FSA. However, the two may be used in combination. You can use money from your FSA toward medical costs such as deductibles, vision care, or dental care.
Some flexible spending accounts have a provision called "use it or lose it," which states that any money left in the account at the end of the year must be returned to the employer. Employers do have the option of allowing employees to roll over up to $500 to the following year. They can also enable members to access their assets during a grace period, which expires on March 15 of each year.
What is the difference between an HSA and an FSA?
The primary difference between these two plans is that the funds in an HSA stay in the account from year to year. As a result, even if you don’t have too many medical costs in a given year, you can still put money away for future use. On the contrary, FSA funds often have a usage deadline of December 31 of the year in which they were contributed. FSA money won’t be carried over into the following fiscal year.
Both HSAs and FSAs can be used to cover medical expenses, making them valuable tools for managing healthcare costs, including therapies like massage.
While HSAs and FSAs aren’t identical, the distinctions between the two accounts are irrelevant when it comes to paying for a massage. However, if you have an FSA with money left over at the end of the year, this is an excellent opportunity to schedule an appointment for a massage.
How much can I save with an HSA/FSA for qualified medical expenses?
By using your health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) funds on massage therapy, you can reduce spending on massages by 30-40% per year. HSAs and FSAs can also be used for a variety of other medical expenses, providing flexibility and tax advantages. You could save an even greater amount if you join a membership program.
Why would you want an HSA or FSA?
HSAs and FSAs have numerous advantages, the most important being the ability to save money. Furthermore, even though nobody wants to believe they could experience a medical catastrophe, emergencies do happen. Therefore, keeping some cash available in case of unexpected health expenses is vital for your sense of financial security.
Qualified Medical Expenses for Massage Therapy
Massage therapy can be considered a qualified medical expense if it is deemed medically necessary by a primary care physician. This means that the massage therapy is intended to treat a specific medical condition or injury, rather than for relaxation or general well-being. Some examples of qualified medical expenses for massage therapy include:
- Treatment of chronic pain or inflammation
- Rehabilitation after an injury or surgery
- Management of stress and anxiety related to a medical condition
- Relief from symptoms of fibromyalgia or other chronic conditions
It’s essential to consult with your primary care physician to determine if massage therapy is a qualified medical expense for your specific situation. This ensures that your treatment plan aligns with your health needs and meets the criteria for using your FSA or HSA funds.
Using FSA/HSA for Massage Therapy
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), you may be able to use these accounts to cover the cost of massage therapy. To do so, you will need to obtain a prescription or letter of medical necessity from your primary care physician, stating that the massage therapy is medically necessary.
Once you have the necessary documentation, you can use your FSA or HSA debit card to pay for the massage therapy, or submit a reimbursement request to your account provider. Be sure to keep receipts and documentation of your massage therapy sessions, as these may be required for reimbursement. This process ensures that your medical expenses are covered efficiently and in compliance with your account’s guidelines.
Finding a Qualified Massage Therapist
When seeking massage therapy, it’s essential to find a qualified and licensed massage therapist. Look for a therapist who is certified by a reputable organization, such as the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).
You can also ask your primary care physician for a referral to a qualified massage therapist. Additionally, check with your insurance provider to see if they have a list of in-network massage therapists. This can help you find a professional who meets your medical needs and is covered under your health plan.
Important Considerations
When using your FSA or HSA for massage therapy, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:
- Be sure to obtain a prescription or letter of medical necessity from your primary care physician before seeking massage therapy.
- Keep receipts and documentation of your massage therapy sessions, as these may be required for reimbursement.
- Check with your account provider to see if there are any specific requirements or limitations for using your FSA or HSA for massage therapy.
- Be aware of the annual contribution limits for your FSA or HSA, and plan accordingly to ensure that you have enough funds to cover your massage therapy expenses.
By following these guidelines and considering these important factors, you can use your FSA or HSA to cover the cost of massage therapy and take advantage of the many health benefits it has to offer. This proactive approach ensures that your medical costs are managed effectively, providing you with both financial and health benefits.
Are electric massagers for massage therapy FSA or HSA eligible?
Yes, some electric massagers are FSA and HSA eligible. However, not all electric massagers may be eligible. If you want to enjoy the benefits of an electric massager while making a smart financial decision, make sure your new massager meets FSA or HSA eligibility criteria.
Are Zarifa USA products HSA/FSA eligible?
All Zarifa USA products are HSA and FSA eligible. This means you can contribute your health savings funds towards the purchase of any of our products!
HSA/FSA Eligible Zarifa USA Products
Don't have the time to visit a clinic for physical therapy? No need to worry. The following eligible products for HSA/FSA will surely save you time and stress. Let's have a look at our favorite Zarifa USA products!
Zarifa USA provides customers with a choice between three massage guns: the Z-Smart, the Health+, and the Mini Massage Gun. The Z-Smart Massage Gun is equipped with 20 different speeds that can reach up to 3200 RPM. The Health+ Gun can reach up to 3500 RPM with 9 different speed settings. These guns include a total of eight unique massage points, a touch screen display, and a minimum five-hour battery life. The Mini Massage Gun comes with 5 different speed settings, 4 different attachments, USB-C charging, and 4-hour battery life.
Classic Cushion
The classic massage cushion is equipped with heat and vibration technology. It gives an efficient tension-reducing massage. This thick cushion aims to release tight muscles and stimulate anti-inflammatory effects. It maintains its stability with its rigid exterior materials. You can trust that it will not compress while you are receiving your massage therapy.
The classic massage cushion's heating system imitates the calming effect of a genuine jade stone massage. It is effective in reducing muscle tightness, involuntary muscular spasms, prolonged strain and stress, and other types of discomfort.
While experiencing a massage from the Classic Cushion, you may feel as though you are floating. It's a great way to wind down before bedtime.
The best part is that you can use your health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for it.
With Zarifa's easy-to-use Foot Massager, you can finally say goodbye to aching feet and calves. Precise Point Technology massages away the aches and pains of tired feet. Use your HSA or FSA funds to buy one and give yourself a peaceful massage experience.
After a long and stressful day, the Z-Smart Eye Massager is exactly what you need. This eye massager can relieve visual fatigue and help you get a better night's sleep. You feel more refreshed the following day after using the eye massager.
Your eyes are sensitive organs with unique requirements for therapeutic massage. The Z-Smart Eye Massager is equipped with five different settings. You can choose from the following optical massage modes: integrated mode, clear mode, sleep mode, vitality mode, and smart mode. Select your desired curative effects with the press of a button.
Pay for your eye massager using either an HSA or an FSA. We are certain that you will adore it.
How can I use an HSA, FSA, or HRA card to pay for Zarifa USA products?
Zarifa USA makes it simple for you to use your HSA, FSA, or HRA card. At the time of purchase, all you have to do is input your card information just as you would with any other credit card. We rapidly process your payment directly from checkout.
To use an HSA, FSA, or HRA card to pay for massage guns or back, neck, and eye massagers, follow these steps:
- After adding products to your digital cart, proceed to check out. Input your contact information and shipping address.
- Choose your shipping and delivery method.
- Input the details for your HSA, FSA, or HRA card in the area labeled "Credit card."
- Confirm your purchase.
That's all! You can then relax knowing that our reliable shipping department will deliver your new products on time.
The bottom line
The benefits of massage extend well beyond stress relief. Massage provides many people with pain relief that cannot be achieved by taking medicine. Opt for a massage therapy that is eligible for HSA or FSA payment, like Zarifa USA products, to gain tons of benefits at the same time!
