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A Simple Guide to Maximizing FSA/HSA (Without Overcomplicating)

Published on Oct 17, 2025 | 11:08 AM

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When it comes to saving money on healthcare, your FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account) are some of the most underused benefits out there. Every year, patients leave hundreds—even thousands—of dollars on the table simply because they don’t know all the ways to use these accounts. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand, and more importantly, easy to put into action.

 

Use Them for Everyday Healthcare

Most people think FSAs and HSAs are only for doctor’s visits or prescriptions—but the list of eligible expenses is much longer. You can use these funds for:

  • Prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
  • Cold and flu products
  • Sunscreen and skin protection
  • First-aid kits and supplies
  • Menstrual products
  • Even certain medical devices like blood pressure cuffs or glucose monitors
     

Think about it—these are things you’re probably buying already. By paying with your FSA or HSA card, you’re essentially using pre-tax money, which means you’re stretching every dollar further.

Pro tip: Before you head to the store or pharmacy, check your FSA/HSA eligibility list online. You may be surprised at what qualifies.

 

Keep Track of Deadlines and Differences

Here’s where many people get tripped up: the rules are not the same for FSAs and HSAs.

  • FSAs are “use it or lose it.” That means if you don’t spend the money by the end of your plan year, it may disappear. Some employers allow a short grace period or let you roll over a small amount, but not always. This makes planning purchases ahead of time essential.
  • HSAs, on the other hand, are much more flexible. The funds roll over year after year and can even be invested to grow tax-free—almost like a retirement account for healthcare. That means an HSA isn’t just for today’s needs, but for your long-term financial health as well.
     

Pro tip: Mark your FSA deadlines on your calendar, and set a reminder to review your balance a month or two before the year ends. That gives you time to stock up on eligible items instead of scrambling at the last minute.

 

Pair Your Funds with Telehealth

Here’s one of the smartest ways to maximize your dollars: use your FSA or HSA for telehealth visits.

Think about the difference:

  • A trip to urgent care can cost $200 to $300, not including labs or prescriptions.
  • A telehealth visit is typically under $100, with transparent pricing and no surprise bills.
     

That means your healthcare dollars stretch much further when you choose online care for common needs—like managing a UTI, renewing a blood pressure prescription, or getting quick treatment for allergies or skin issues.

At CallOnDoc, we keep costs low, visits discreet, and prescriptions convenient. For most conditions, you’ll spend less than urgent care and still get same-day treatment. And yes—your HSA or FSA card works just fine.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure whether a telehealth visit is covered, call your FSA/HSA administrator. Most approve these visits, especially when they’re clearly for medical care.

 

Keep Your Receipts and Plan Ahead

The IRS requires documentation for certain FSA/HSA purchases, especially if you’re reimbursing yourself. Keeping receipts isn’t just a paperwork chore—it’s protection in case your plan asks for verification.

Planning ahead also means looking at your yearly healthcare patterns. Do you refill prescriptions every month? Need an annual dermatology visit? Have kids who seem to need a new round of antibiotics every winter? Estimate those costs and allocate funds accordingly during open enrollment.

Pro tip: Think of your FSA or HSA as a budget for your health—not just an account. A little planning upfront prevents waste and ensures your money is working for you.

 

The Bottom Line

Your FSA and HSA aren’t just financial tools—they’re opportunities to make healthcare more affordable and less stressful. From everyday purchases like sunscreen and first-aid kits, to smarter choices like telehealth visits, these accounts let you stretch your dollars further while still getting the care you need.

Don’t let your money go to waste. Plan purchases, track deadlines, keep receipts, and take advantage of modern care options like CallOnDoc. Healthcare that fits in your pocket—not your calendar.

 

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Shelly House, FNP,

Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.

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