How to Get Reimbursed for Diabetic Shoes Through Your HSA/FSA Account

Did you know that you can get reimbursed for diabetic shoes through your HSA or FSA account? It may seem daunting or overwhelming if you aren't familiar with the process, but not to worry. We outline the 3-simple steps to get reimbursed! 

What are a Health Savings Account (HSA) and a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?

Both a Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allow an individual to set aside tax-free funds to pay for qualified out-of-pocket medical expenses, including deductibles, co-pays and prescriptions. Employers sometimes make matching contributions to both HSAs and FSAs.

A key difference between the two accounts is an individual must use the money set aside in an FSA that specific year. Any unused funds will be lost at the end of the year. In contrast, HSA assets roll over to the next year, earn interest and may be invested. 

Are orthopedic and diabetic footwear products covered by an HSA or FSA?

Yes, orthopedic and therapeutic footwear products qualify as a medical expense through an HSA or FSA account and can be reimbursed through your provider accounts. There are many options for diabetic footwear including women's and men's orthopedic slippers, sandals, and shoes. It is important to note that there is a process to be reimbursed, which may be found below.

How to seek reimbursement for qualifying orthopedic and diabetic footwear and/or inserts?

The steps below outline on the process to be reimbursed for qualifying orthopedic and diabetic footwear and/or inserts

Step 1:

To seek reimbursement for your Orthotics/Orthopedic Inserts, Orthopedic footwear, and post-operative footwear, you must first obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity from your qualified health care provider (Podiatrist, a Certified Pedorthist (C.Ped) or a Prosthetic and Orthotic Professional (CPO or CO)). The qualified healthcare provider would identify any foot condition you may have, as well as measure your feet for sizing.

Step 2:

You will want to purchase shoes to address your specific foot condition. Once you purchase the correct footwear product, you will need to save your receipt for proof of purchase.

Step 3:

You will also need to fill out and submit a claim form to your HSA or FSA provider stating the details of your purchase such as the name of the footwear, the purchase date and the amount paid. The participant must sign the reimbursement form indicating that the claim was for the individual, their spouse, or eligible dependent. You must also state the specific medical condition noted by your physician in the Letter of Medical Necessity to fully substantiate your claim.

Make sure to check for any deadlines associated with submitting requests for reimbursement for your footwear products under your Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account. Additionally, for some health savings accounts, reimbursement for orthopedic shoes constitutes only the cost difference between the prescribed orthopedic shoe and a non-specialized shoe. Check with your provider regarding rules for reimbursement before making your purchase!

If you are still confused regarding the process or have any additional questions, please contact us. We are happy to help!