Does FSA cover orthotics?
Orthotics and orthopedic shoe inserts used to treat a medical condition are qualified FSA expenses.
What flips the answer
- Covered when
They're custom orthotics prescribed to treat a foot, gait, or orthopedic condition.
- Covered when
They're over-the-counter arch supports or orthopedic inserts used to relieve a diagnosed foot problem.
- Not covered when
The purchase is ordinary footwear or a general comfort product with no medical function.
IRS Publication 502 counts the cost of special equipment and devices that treat a physical condition as qualified medical care. Custom orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist or physician to treat a foot or gait problem clearly qualify.
Over-the-counter arch supports and orthopedic inserts sold to relieve foot pain are generally eligible too, because they serve a medical purpose rather than general comfort — many FSA administrators list them as eligible without a prescription.
The line is medical purpose. An insert or shoe modification that treats a condition qualifies; an ordinary pair of shoes or a comfort product with no medical function does not.
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