Surprise! You still may have FSA or HSA money to use in March

Your FSA or HSA for 2023 may not have expired in December. Some of them may still be valid up to the end of March. March not only marks the transition to spring but also serves as a strategic time to optimize the benefits of your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). If you've been contemplating updating your eyeglasses or stocking up on contact lenses, now is the perfect opportunity to leverage your pre-tax healthcare dollars. 

In this guide, we'll delve into how you can use your FSA or HSA account to enhance your vision in March.

1. Check Your Account Balance:
Before embarking on your eyewear journey, it's essential to assess your FSA or HSA account balance. Knowing how much you have available can help you budget accordingly for your eyeglasses or contact lens purchase. By staying informed about your account balance, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare spending.

2. Schedule an Eye Exam:
The first step in obtaining new eyeglasses or contact lenses is to schedule an eye exam with your optometrist. Many FSAs and HSAs cover the cost of comprehensive eye exams, making them an excellent use of your pre-tax dollars. Plus, routine eye exams are essential for maintaining optimal eye health and detecting any potential vision problems early on.

3. Explore Your Eyewear Options:
Once you've had your eye exam and received your prescription, it's time to explore your eyewear options. Whether you prefer eyeglasses or contact lenses, there are plenty of choices available to suit your style and vision needs. From designer frames to specialty contact lenses, using your FSA or HSA funds can help offset the cost of your preferred eyewear.

4. Purchase Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses:
With your prescription in hand, you can now purchase your eyeglasses or contact lenses using your FSA or HSA funds. Many vision care providers accept FSA and HSA payments, making the process seamless and hassle-free. Whether you're buying prescription eyeglasses for everyday wear or stocking up on contact lenses for occasional use, utilizing your pre-tax dollars can lead to significant savings. You can also save it up by getting a gift card and use it over time. 

March presents a prime opportunity to use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) for eyeglasses or contact lenses. By checking your account balance, scheduling an eye exam, exploring your eyewear options, purchasing your preferred eyewear, and considering additional vision care services, you can make the most out of your pre-tax healthcare dollars. Remember, investing in your vision is an investment in your overall well-being.