Are Gym Memberships Covered By My HSA/FSA?

Short Answer:
Saunas can be covered by your HSA/FSA if a licensed healthcare provider determines it is medically necessary for a diagnosed condition or for immediate and proximate prevention of a condition. You’ll need a valid Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) that aligns with IRS guidance on eligible medical expenses.

The IRS’s Publication 502 provides general guidelines on deducting medical expenses on your taxes. Many rules in Publication 502 also apply to HSA/FSA eligibility, but it’s not an exhaustive list. If you have a specific medical condition and a valid LMN, you may be covered for expenses not explicitly listed in Publication 502—like a sauna—provided it’s “primarily for” treating or preventing that condition.

1. Diagnosed Condition

   • You must have a specific health issue (e.g., hypertension, chronic pain, or another medically recognized condition) diagnosed by a qualified healthcare professional.

2. Medical Necessity

   • You need a valid LMN indicating the sauna is primarily for treating or preventing your diagnosed condition.

   • The LMN must clearly connect your use of the sauna to managing or preventing that condition.

3. Immediate & Proximate Prevention (if Applicable)

   • If your LMN is for prevention, it should explain how sauna use directly prevents a known, imminent risk (not just general wellness or relaxation).

1. Get a Valid LMN

   • A licensed medical professional must issue a Letter of Medical Necessity stating how a sauna is primarily used for managing or preventing your condition.

   • Ensure the LMN is dated on or before your sauna purchase date.

2. Purchase & Submit for Reimbursement

   • Use your HSA/FSA card directly or pay out of pocket and request reimbursement later, based on your plan’s process.

   • Keep copies of the purchase receipt and LMN in case your administrator requests documentation.

1. What if my sauna usage is just for relaxation?
Saunas for general relaxation or wellness alone are not eligible. You must have a medical diagnosis and an LMN stating sauna use is necessary for treatment or prevention.

2. Why isn’t sauna listed in Publication 502?
Publication 502 isn’t an exhaustive list. If you have a valid LMN indicating medical necessity, the expense may still qualify under IRS rules.

3. What if my administrator denies the claim?
Contact your plan administrator for clarification, and provide them with your LMN and any supporting research. You can also reach out to Truemed Support for further assistance or an LMN update.

4. Will insurance providers or HSA/FSA administrators need additional documentation?
They might. Always keep detailed records, including your LMN, receipts, and any medical notes about your treatment plan.

If you’re unsure about whether a sauna is eligible for your HSA/FSA or need help obtaining or updating your LMN, please contact Truemed support at support@truemed.com. We’re here to help ensure you have the proper documentation to confidently submit a claim and stay compliant with IRS guidelines.