Sunglasses: FSA and HSA Eligibility
Prescription sunglasses are reimbursable from your FSA or HSA. Non-prescription sunglasses do not qualify. Learn what's eligible and how to claim it.
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Short answer
Prescription sunglasses are reimbursable outright from your FSA, HSA or HRA, just like prescription glasses. Non-prescription sunglasses are not reimbursable because they are a personal item with no medical purpose under IRS Publication 502.
The difference comes down to whether your sunglasses correct a vision defect. If you need them to see clearly or to treat an eye condition, they are eligible. If you wear them only for comfort or appearance, they are not.
Prescription vs. non-prescription: what qualifies
Prescription sunglasses are covered by the same rule that applies to regular prescription glasses. Under IRS Publication 502, you can include in medical expenses amounts you pay for eyeglasses and contact lenses needed for medical reasons. Prescription sunglasses meet this test because the prescription corrects a vision defect.
Non-prescription sunglasses, by contrast, are a personal item with no medical purpose. They exist for comfort or style, and the IRS doesn't recognize them as a medical expense, even if you prefer to wear them outdoors.
Type | Reimbursable? | Why |
|---|---|---|
Prescription sunglasses | Yes, outright | They correct vision and fall under 'eyeglasses needed for medical reasons' |
Non-prescription sunglasses | No | They are a personal item with no medical purpose |
What makes a purchase reimbursable
A pair of prescription sunglasses qualifies because it serves a medical function: correcting or treating a vision problem. The moment you add a prescription to the lenses, the purchase moves from 'personal grooming' into medical expense. The prescription, not the tint or style, is what makes the difference.
Non-prescription sunglasses do not cross that threshold. They are like regular sunglasses anyone might buy at a convenience store. The fact that you choose to wear them does not give them a medical purpose.
How to buy prescription sunglasses and get reimbursed
You can buy prescription sunglasses from any retailer: an optometrist, an eye care center, an online glasses retailer, or a general store if they offer prescription lenses. You can pay with any card (credit, debit, or BNPL).
Since prescription sunglasses are reimbursable outright, you don't need a letter of medical necessity. You only need your receipt and the prescription. The purchase must be made after the IRS and your plan administrator approve your FSA, HSA or HRA.
When you are reimbursed
Prescription sunglasses: reimbursed outright. You don't need a doctor's letter, and the claim is straightforward.
Non-prescription sunglasses: not reimbursable under any circumstance. A letter from a clinician won't change the outcome.
Related vision expenses
Sunglasses are one of many vision-related expenses you can cover with your FSA, HSA or HRA. Other eligible vision expenses include:
Prescription glasses for distance or reading
Contact lenses and contact lens solution
Eye exams
LASIK and other vision-correction surgery
Getting prescription sunglasses reimbursed with Burst
If what you're buying needs a letter of medical necessity, Burst writes it and files the claim. $35 once, about two minutes to request, reviewed by a licensed clinician, typically in your inbox within 24 hours. Burst files the reimbursement claim with your FSA, HSA or HRA administrator, and the administrator pays you out of your account by deposit or check. No letter, no charge. Claim denied, money back. The letter has to be dated on or before the purchase it covers, so request it before you buy.
Get reimbursed for my prescription sunglasses
Frequently asked questions
Are prescription sunglasses reimbursable from my FSA?
Yes. Prescription sunglasses are reimbursable outright from your FSA, just like prescription glasses. You don't need a letter of medical necessity.
What about non-prescription sunglasses?
Non-prescription sunglasses aren't reimbursable. They are a personal item with no medical purpose under IRS rules. This applies even if you prefer to wear them regularly or if a doctor recommends you wear sunglasses for comfort.
Can I get reimbursed for sunglasses with a letter of medical necessity?
Only if the sunglasses are prescription. Non-prescription sunglasses can't be reimbursed under any condition. A letter of medical necessity doesn't change this outcome.
Do I need a prescription to buy reimbursable sunglasses?
Yes. The prescription is what qualifies the purchase as a medical expense. Without a prescription, the sunglasses are a personal item.
Where can I buy prescription sunglasses?
You can buy them from any eye care provider or retailer that offers prescription lenses: an optometrist, an optical store, an online eyeglasses retailer, or a general store with a vision center.
Do I need any documentation beyond my receipt?
For prescription sunglasses, you need your receipt and proof of your prescription. That's all the documentation required.
Is there a limit on what I can spend on prescription sunglasses?
There is no limit specific to sunglasses themselves. Your limit comes from your account's total medical expense allowance, governed by your FSA, HSA or HRA plan document.
Can I buy prescription sunglasses and then use my HSA money to pay?
Yes. You can use your HSA or FSA to pay for prescription sunglasses outright, or you can pay with another card and then file a claim for reimbursement.
Keep reading: Prescription glasses and FSA/HSA eligibility, What qualifies as a medical expense, Vision, dental and hearing expenses, and all guides on this topic.
Sources
IRS Publication 502 - Medical and Dental Expenses (prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses needed for medical reasons, contact lenses, eye exams, eye surgery, personal use items)
Healthcare.gov Glossary (flexible spending account and health savings account definitions and account types)
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