Key Takeaways:
Pre-tax flexible spending account (FSA) balances generally must be used by the end of the plan year or your employer’s grace period, while health savings account (HSA) funds usually roll over from year to year. Custom orthotics prescribed to treat a foot condition are commonly eligible under both plans, as are many copays and podiatry procedures, though your plan administrator makes the final call and may ask for a letter of medical necessity.
The email usually shows up in early December. It says you still have money in your flexible spending account, and the clock is running. However, your feet may have their own persistent reminder: heel pain that greets you every morning, or arches that ache after a long shift on a concrete floor.
These two problems may share one solution. At Canyon Foot + Ankle, our skilled Twin Falls and Burley podiatric surgeons evaluate whether custom orthotics or other types of treatment make sense for your feet—and if your FSA or HSA funds cover the costs. Here’s what you need to know.
Table of Contents
How Do FSA and HSA Deadlines Work?
Planning foot care near the end of the year helps you make the most of your health benefits and avoid losing money you could use for treatment. However, it’s important to have a clear understanding of how your account works and which dates matter.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Most health FSAs have a “use-it-or-lose-it” rule, meaning you could forfeit unused funds when your plan year ends. However, your employer may offer one of two options:
- Carryover. You may be able to transfer up to a certain dollar amount in unused funds from this plan year into the next.
- Grace period. Your plan may give you up to two and a half additional months to incur eligible medical expenses using the previous year's balance.
Employers can offer one of these options or neither—but not both. Because your plan year may not follow the calendar year, check when you must receive eligible care and submit reimbursement claims. IRS Publication 969 explains these rules in more detail.
Health Savings Accounts
Unlike an FSA, an HSA is an individually owned account, even when your employer contributes to it. This means your unused money stays in your account year after year, and you keep it even if you change jobs or health insurance plans.
Although HSA funds don't expire, scheduling covered foot care before your health insurance deductible resets could save you money, particularly if you've already met your deductible for the current plan year.
Can You Use FSA or HSA Dollars for Custom Orthotics?
In most cases, yes. Custom orthotics prescribed to treat a diagnosed foot condition are generally considered a qualified medical expense. However, some FSA administrators may require a letter of medical necessity before approving reimbursement, and Canyon Foot + Ankle can provide one when clinically appropriate.
If our Burley and Twin Falls podiatrists recommend custom orthotics to relieve pain, improve foot function, or manage an ongoing condition, don't let concerns about cost keep you from exploring your options. Start by reviewing our information on insurance coverage for custom orthotics to understand what your policy may cover.
Even if your insurance only pays a portion of the cost—or doesn't cover custom orthotics at all—you may still be able to use your available FSA or HSA funds to pay the remaining eligible expenses. Our team will help you understand your treatment recommendations and the documentation you may need so you can make an informed decision about your foot health without unnecessary financial surprises.
Are There Other Foot Care Expenses That Qualify for FSA or HSA Funds?
If you've been putting off foot care because of the cost, these accounts may help make treatment more affordable. Many common podiatry services qualify, so it's worth exploring your benefits before delaying an appointment or procedure.
Other eligible expenses may include:
- Office visits. Copays, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary podiatry appointments.
- In-office procedures. Treatment for painful foot conditions, including professional ingrown toenail treatment.
- Diabetic foot care. Solutions might include medically necessary orthotics and therapeutic footwear when they meet eligibility requirements.
- Medications and medical supplies. Prescription drugs, eligible over-the-counter treatments, bandages, and qualifying wound-care supplies.
Purely cosmetic services generally aren't eligible, but many treatments that relieve pain, improve foot function, or manage a diagnosed condition may qualify. Before scheduling care, check with your FSA administrator or HSA provider about eligible expenses and any documentation requirements. You may have more options for paying for the foot care you need than you realize.
Timing Your Visit Before the Deadline
FSA expenses generally count when you receive the care—not when you pay the bill. A visit in early January usually won’t qualify for the previous year’s balance unless your plan has a carryover or grace period.
If you’ve noticed signs you may need orthotic support, such as recurring heel pain, arch fatigue, or uneven shoe wear, schedule an evaluation with us now. This leaves time for the exam, the scan, and—if orthotic devices or other care services are required—any documentation your plan requires to move forward in comfort.
