IRS Publishes FAQs on Medical Expenses Related to Nutrition, Wellness
The IRS recently posted frequently asked questions (FAQs) addressing whether certain costs related to nutrition, wellness and general health are medical expenses that may be paid or reimbursed under a health savings account (HSA), health flexible spending arrangement (FSA), Archer medical savings account (Archer MSA), or health reimbursement arrangement (HRA).
Generally, a deduction is allowed for expenses paid during the taxable year for medical care if certain requirements are met. Alternatively, medical expenses are eligible to be paid or reimbursed under an HSA, FSA, Archer MSA or HRA. The FAQs address issues such as whether the cost of nutritional counseling, weight-loss programs, gym memberships and treatment for substance use disorders are considered medical expenses that may be paid or reimbursed under an HSA, FSA, Archer MSA, or HRA.
For more information about whether costs related to nutrition, wellness and general health are medical expenses, see Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses, and Tax Topic 502, Medical and Dental Expenses. For more information about HSAs, FSAs, Archer MSAs and HRAs, see Publication 969, Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans.