Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow taxpayers to set aside money to put toward eligible medical expenses. Because this money is taken out of their pre-tax earnings, workers who take advantage of this program save money every year while simultaneously ensuring they have enough set aside to pay for crucial healthcare expenses. Because FSAs are offered through employers, many people also get additional contributions through their jobs, which can help to stretch the money even further.
This savings program does have some stipulations. People usually need to use the money put into their FSAs within 12-18 months, for example, and they must spend it on eligible purchases. The good news for the millions who suffer from incontinence is that using FSA for incontinence supplies is absolutely within the program’s purview. Read on to find out how FSAs can help with incontinence supplies.
Who Can Use FSA Contributions for Incontinence Supplies?
Anyone who suffers from incontinence that has been diagnosed by a doctor can use their FSA to purchase supplies designed to make managing their disorder easier. The types of incontinence include:
- Stress incontinence causes leakage when pressure is exerted on the bladder.
- Urge incontinence causes a sudden urge to urinate followed by involuntary voiding.
- Overflow incontinence causes a constant or frequent dribble of urine.
- Functional incontinence occurs when someone has more than one type of urinary incontinence.
These related issues can have many underlying causes, from infections to neurological disorders. No matter the cause of a person’s incontinence, they can use FSA funds to purchase supplies designed to manage it effectively.
How to Use FSA Funds to Buy Incontinence Supplies
All it takes to start using FSA contributions for incontinence supplies is a prescription from a urologist or a primary care physician that states what equipment a patient needs. From there, patients can choose their suppliers and use their FSAs to purchase anything they need to manage incontinence more effectively. Just be sure to provide the supplier with the FSA card information when making the purchase.
Types of Eligible Incontinence Supplies
The same rules apply to incontinence supplies as to other FSA-eligible products. Any equipment that is considered medically necessary for managing the condition is eligible. Types of eligible incontinence supplies include:
- Male urinal systems
- Sterile lubricating jelly
- Foley catheter insertion trays and syringes
- Urine reagent strips
- Foley stabilization devices
- Leg bags and holders
- Urological anchoring devices
- Bed bags
- And others
No matter the cause of a worker’s incontinence, if they need catheterization supplies, they can pay for them using FSA funds. In most cases, adult diapers can also be paid for in this way.
The Benefits of Using an FSA to Pay for Incontinence Supplies
The primary benefit of using FSA contributions to pay for incontinence supplies is that it helps workers save money. Because FSAs don’t roll over, purchasing incontinence supplies at the end of the period is a good way not to lose the benefits. Using an FSA to pay for supplies online is also incredibly easy and allows patients to get products shipped right to their doorsteps.
The Importance of Finding a Reputable Supplier
As with any kind of medical supplies or equipment, patients need to find a reputable supplier. Look for an online vendor that has a reputation for providing excellent customer service and check their website to make sure that they allow customers to use FSA contributions.