Smart Things to Buy with Your FSA Before It Expires

Your FSA deadline is coming up and you still have a balance. Don't panic — and definitely don't forfeit it. According to EBRI data, the average FSA holder who forfeits funds loses $441 per year. This guide organizes practical FSA-eligible purchases by budget so you can quickly find items that match your remaining balance and are things you'll actually use.

What Can I Buy with My FSA for Under $50?

Small balance or just need to top off? These items are available at any pharmacy or Amazon's FSA store:

• Sunscreen (SPF 15+): $8-15 per bottle. Stock up for the year — eligible since the CARES Act of 2020.
• Pain relievers: Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, Tylenol, Advil — $5-12.
• Allergy medicine: Zyrtec, Claritin, Flonase — $12-30 for a 30-day supply.
• First aid kit: $15-40 for a well-stocked kit.
• Digital thermometer: $8-15.
• Band-aids and gauze: $5-10.
• Reading glasses: $10-25.
• Melatonin or sleep aids: $8-15.
• Lip balm with SPF: $3-8.
• Menstrual products: Pads, tampons, cups — $8-30.

What FSA-Eligible Items Cost $50-200?

A moderate balance opens up more useful purchases:

• Blood pressure monitor: $30-80. Every household should have one.
• Heating pad: $15-50 for electric, $25-60 for infrared.
• TENS unit: $25-80. Effective for back pain, muscle soreness. No prescription needed.
• Compression stockings: $15-40 per pair.
• Contact lens solution (bulk): $25-40 for a multi-pack.
• Cold therapy wraps: $20-60.
• Elastic braces (knee, ankle, wrist): $15-40 each.
• Acupressure mat: $25-50 (with LMN from your doctor).
• Year supply of allergy medication: $60-150.
• Prenatal vitamins (year supply): $30-80.

What Are the Highest-Value FSA Purchases in the $200-500 Range?

This is where you get significant value for your FSA dollars:

• Prescription eyeglasses: $100-400 with lenses. Get a backup pair.
• Prescription sunglasses: $150-500. A practical FSA purchase.
• Annual contact lens supply: $200-600 depending on brand.
• Custom dental night guard: $300-800 from your dentist.
• Massage gun: $100-400 (with LMN from doctor).
• Breast pump: $150-350 for a quality electric pump.
• Hearing aids (OTC): $200-800. OTC hearing aids are FSA-eligible.
• Dental cleaning + filling: $200-500 out of pocket after insurance.

What FSA-Eligible Medical Purchases Cost $500-1,000?

• CPAP supplies (annual): $300-800 for masks, filters, tubing.
• Dental crown: $800-3,000 (insurance usually covers part).
• Physical therapy sessions: $50-100/session x 10-20 sessions.
• Root canal: $700-1,500 out of pocket.
• Continuous glucose monitor: Dexcom/Libre starter kit $300-600.
• Orthotics (custom): $200-800 per pair.

What Are the Largest FSA-Eligible Expenses Over $1,000?

If you have a large balance, these high-dollar expenses can use it all:

• LASIK surgery: $2,000-4,000 per eye. One of the most common large FSA purchases.
• Orthodontia (braces or Invisalign): $3,000-8,000. Can split across plan years.
• Dental implants: $3,000-5,000 per tooth.
• Fertility treatments: IUI ($2,000-5,000), IVF ($10,000-15,000+).
• Hearing aids (prescription): $1,000-6,000 per pair.

What Tips Help When Shopping for FSA Items Before the Deadline?

1. Buy items you'll use anyway. Don't buy things just to spend your FSA. Focus on items you'd purchase regardless — sunscreen, allergy meds, contacts — and buy in bulk.
2. Check if your FSA card works at Amazon. Many FSA debit cards work at Amazon's FSA/HSA store, which has a wide selection of verified eligible items.
3. Schedule medical appointments. The expense must be incurred (not just paid) before your deadline. Schedule dental cleanings, eye exams, and physical therapy sessions before your plan year ends.
4. Save your receipts. Your FSA administrator may request documentation. Keep itemized receipts and EOBs.
5. Don't forget your dependents. Your FSA covers eligible expenses for your spouse and dependents under 26, even if they're on a different insurance plan.

How Can I Avoid Scrambling at the End of Every FSA Year?

The most effective time to plan your FSA spending is the beginning of the year, not the end. SpendRebel calculates your at-risk balance, sends smart reminders throughout the year, and suggests eligible purchases based on your remaining amount. Set it up in 2 minutes — it's free and it saves you from the year-end scramble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy FSA items after my plan year ends?

Only if your employer offers a grace period (typically 2.5 months, until March 15 for calendar-year plans). During the grace period, you can incur new eligible expenses using your prior year's balance. If your employer offers a carryover instead, up to $660 rolls over but new expenses are charged to your new plan year balance.

Do I need a prescription for OTC items bought with my FSA?

No. Since the CARES Act of 2020, OTC medications and health products (pain relievers, allergy meds, sunscreen SPF 15+, sleep aids, etc.) are FSA-eligible without a prescription.

Can I buy items for my family with my FSA?

Yes. Your FSA covers eligible expenses for yourself, your spouse, and your tax dependents (generally children under age 26), even if they are enrolled in a different health insurance plan.

What happens if I don't spend my FSA by the deadline?

Unspent FSA funds are forfeited to your employer, minus any carryover amount (up to $660 for 2026). According to EBRI, Americans forfeit an estimated $4.5 billion in FSA funds annually.