Tax Thursday:IRS Answers Questions Pertaining To Medical Expenses

The Internal Revenue Service today posted frequently asked questions that address 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).

These FAQs are part of the National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and HealthPDF. The National Strategy provides a roadmap of actions the federal government will take to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases by 2030.

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 ExpensesPDF, 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 PlansPDF.