Exercise Equipment: requires a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) to be eligible with a Health Savings Account (HSA)
Exercise equipment may be eligible for reimbursement with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA) or a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA). Exercise equipment is not eligible with a limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA) or a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).
Not eligible for general use and wellbeing.
Research Update: IRS Information Letter re: Home Exercise Equipment (10/21/03) Information Letter 2003-0202
What is exercise equipment?
Exercise equipment are any machines or equipment used for physical exercise. This includes treadmills, weights, and more (Harvard Health Publishing). Exercise equipment must be used to treat a specific medical condition in order to be considered eligible for reimbursement under a consumer-directed health care account. Exercise equipment used for general health and wellbeing is not eligible for reimbursement.
Some specific medical conditions may require exercise equipment, which a doctor can determine and prescribe. Examples of specific medical conditions for which a doctor may prescribe exercise equipment include obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and more. Weight loss plans are not an acceptable reason for reimbursing the cost of exercise equipment.
How do I obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN)?
A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) for exercise equipment is necessary for reimbursement with most benefits providers. This letter must outline how an account holder's needs for help, related to their medical condition, necessitates the use of exercise equipment; how the ergonomic items will be used to alleviate the issue; and how the ergonomic items will be used. If the treatment plan exceeds the current plan year, another LMN will have to be provided to the benefits administrator to cover the duration of the treatment.