Does an FSA cover COVID testing?
At-home COVID-19 tests and lab testing are qualified medical expenses, so you can pay for them with FSA funds.
What flips the answer
- Covered when
The expense is an at-home COVID-19 test, lab/provider COVID test, or COVID-prevention PPE like masks and hand sanitizer.
- Not covered when
The item is general merchandise not primarily for diagnosing or preventing COVID-19.
The IRS has confirmed that the cost of COVID-19 home testing kits is an eligible medical expense that can be paid or reimbursed under a health FSA, HSA, or similar account. Lab-based and provider-administered COVID tests qualify as diagnostic medical care as well.
Related personal protective equipment bought for the primary purpose of preventing the spread of COVID-19 — masks, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing wipes — is also treated as a qualified medical expense under IRS guidance.
Because these are recognized eligible items, FSA debit cards generally work for at-home tests at pharmacies using the IIAS system, and you can submit receipts for reimbursement where the card isn't accepted.
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