(NewsNation) — Savings accounts like HSAs allow users to pay for “qualifying medical expenses,” according to Internal Revenue Service guidelines, with pre-tax dollars.
Health savings accounts are for those with high-deductible health plans and can be used to pay for some out-of-pocket medical and dental expenses.
What kind of dental expenses can you pay for with an HSA?
- Teeth cleanings
- Flouride treatments
- Braces
- Fillings
- Dental X-rays
- Extractions
- Dentures
- Dental bridges and implants
- Over-the-counter medications
These fall under preventive and alleviating services, which are qualified expenses. Websites like HSAStore.com have a full list of HSA-eligible products and services.
What kind of expenses can you not pay for using an HSA?
- Teeth whitening
- Floss
- Veneers (unless medically necessary, with a letter from a doctor)
Teeth whitening is not included, according to the IRS, as it is categorized as cosmetic surgery. The IRS defines cosmetic surgery as “any procedure that is directed at improving the patient’s appearance and doesn’t meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease.”
HSAs can be used to pay for artificial teeth, but this is considered a medical expense instead of dental.