For many new parents, managing the expenses that come with raising a newborn can be challenging. From essential baby supplies to unexpected medical costs, the financial demands can quickly add up. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) can be a big help in easing some of these financial pressures.
An FSA allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover eligible healthcare expenses, which can lead to significant savings. By using an FSA, new parents can plan more effectively for various health-related items and services their family may need. This includes not only routine medical expenses but also a wide range of baby products and necessities that might otherwise strain the budget.
Utilizing an FSA can make a substantial difference in managing the costs associated with welcoming a new child, providing both financial relief and peace of mind. Here are some FSA eligible baby products and breastfeeding necessities that you can use your flex dollars on, along with notes on which ones might not be covered.
FSA eligible breastfeeding supplies & beyond
Breastfeeding is known as a cost-effective option for nourishing infants, but it still involves various expenses. FSAs offer a valuable financial benefit for covering these breastfeeding expenses. Many essential items such as breast pumps and their accessories, nursing pads, and nipple shields are eligible for FSA reimbursement.
FSA eligible baby products
Prenatal vitamins – Despite their name, prenatal vitamins remain important for breastfeeding people. These vitamins ensure both the parent and their baby get the essential nutrients needed for good health and support milk production during breastfeeding. Fortunately, prenatal vitamins and glucosamine are two of the very few vitamin types approved for FSAs.
Breast pumps – While your insurance will likely cover a bulk of the cost, you may be left with a remaining balance, especially if you choose a higher-end model, like one that comes in a nondescript bag for toting to and from work. But you're in luck -- the IRS lists breast pumps as a qualifying medical expense.
Storage bottles – Bottles play a crucial role in breastfeeding by allowing mothers to express breast milk for feeding sessions when they cannot directly breastfeed. This flexibility is particularly useful for parents who need to return to work or have other commitments, enabling them to store and feed their baby with pumped milk.
Bottles also provide an opportunity for partners or other caregivers to participate in feeding, fostering bonding and sharing responsibilities in caring for the baby. Additionally, bottles ensure that babies receive adequate nutrition even when breastfeeding directly isn't possible, maintaining their health and growth.
One thing to keep in mind — storage bottles are FSA eligible, but bottles used just for feeding are usually not. Be sure to check with your administrator if you have any questions.
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Extra pump parts – Extra breast pump parts are crucial for maintaining the functionality and cleanliness of breast pumps over time. These parts, including valves, membranes, and tubing, often need regular replacement due to wear and tear from frequent use.
Additionally, standard breast shields that come with breast pumps are not one-size-fits-all, meaning you may need to purchase a smaller or larger shield.
Fortunately, all of this is FSA eligible, as they fall under the category of supplies that assist lactation.
Milk storage bags – Milk storage bags are invaluable for new parents who breastfeed, providing a practical solution to safely store expressed breast milk. They offer convenience by allowing parents to maintain a supply of milk for times when direct breastfeeding isn't possible, whether due to work commitments or personal schedules, thus ensuring flexibility and peace of mind.
Disposable nursing pads/ nipple shields – New parents may find disposable nipple pads and shields helpful for managing breastfeeding challenges. Disposable nipple pads absorb leaks and prevent wetness from irritating the skin, while disposable nipple shields can provide comfort and protect sore nipples, making the breastfeeding experience more comfortable and manageable. Both fall under the category of supplies that aid in lactation, making them qualifying expenses.
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Baby supplies that are not covered by your FSA
While FSAs cover many health-related baby products, certain items are not eligible for reimbursement. For example, over-the-counter baby skincare products like lotions and diaper creams, as well as general wellness items such as baby wipes and non-medical thermometers, typically do not qualify. Understanding these exclusions helps parents focus their FSA funds on eligible products that directly support health and medical needs.
Support pillows – Breastfeeding pillows (like the Boppy) are not FSA eligible, though most moms say they're must-haves. That said, an orthopedic neck support pillow might be comforting for new moms during some of those late nights and early mornings.
Nursing bras, tops, covers, or other apparel – Nursing bras, shirts, and other apparel do not qualify as FSA eligible expenses, with one exception: hands-free bras used for pumping. These bras are not designed for use as an everyday bra, but do come in handy for busy moms with their hands full. (These bras don't come cheap, so we recommend waiting for a good sale.)
While your FSA can’t help with all baby items, the list of FSA eligible baby products can help you save money with tax-free spending. This could free up funds for other important expenses, like saving for your child's education—or a great vacation!
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