If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), here’s something important to remember: unused funds don’t roll over forever. In many plans, any balance not used by the end of the plan year—or grace period—disappears. No refunds. No extensions. Just lost dollars.
That’s money you’ve already earned. And even a few hundred dollars left unspent could cover real needs—if you plan ahead.
Why Now?
Mid-year is a smart time to check in. You still have time to use your benefits wisely—but not so much that deadlines sneak up and catch you off guard.
What You Can Spend FSA Funds On
Here are some common—and some surprising—ways to use your balance:
- ✅ Medical co-pays and deductibles
- ✅ Prescription glasses, contact lenses, and eye exams
- ✅ Dental work (including fillings, cleanings, orthodontics)
- ✅ Therapy or counseling sessions
- ✅ Chiropractor visits
- ✅ Over-the-counter medications (Tylenol, allergy meds, acne treatments)
- ✅ First-aid kits, bandages, thermometers, sunscreen (yes, sunscreen!)
- ✅ Menstrual care products
- ✅ Hearing aids and batteries
Bonus tip: You can shop FSA-approved items directly from retailers like CVS, Walgreens, and Amazon using your FSA card.
A Simple 3-Step FSA Check-In
- Log in to your benefits portal and review your current FSA balance
- Check your plan deadline — is there a grace period or carryover option?
- Make a spending plan for the remaining balance now (not in December!)
How AFP Can Help
At AFP, our Daily Money Managers track FSA balances, flag upcoming deadlines, and even help gather receipts or organize documentation for reimbursement. We stay on top of the details, so you don’t have to.
Whether you’re managing your own account or a loved one’s, we’ll help make sure no benefit goes to waste.
Jeremy Zizmor is the founder of Assurance Family Partners, a company whose mission is to assist and empower individuals and families who need help managing their personal day-to-day finances. He is responsible for running all facets of the business.
