HSA & FSA for Massage
As the year draws to a close, you may find that you are scrambling to use up your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds before they expire. While the temptation to splurge on over-the-counter medications or first aid kits is understandable, there's another, more relaxing option worth considering – a Therapeutic Massage.
However, before booking that spa appointment, it's crucial to understand the ins and outs of HSA and FSA coverage for massages and the steps involved in reimbursement.
Step 1) Verify Your Coverage
The first step in this year-end relaxation strategy is to confirm whether massage therapy is covered by your HSA or FSA plan. Not all plans are created equal, and coverage for alternative therapies, like massage, can vary. Contact your insurance provider or review your plan documentation to determine the specifics of your coverage to ensure that massage is covered by the plan.
Step 2) Check Eligibility
Once you've confirmed that massage therapy is covered, it's essential to verify the eligibility requirements. Some plans may require a prescription or a letter of medical necessity from a healthcare provider in order for massage to be covered. Other plans include massage and don't require a referral from your PCP for massage to be covered. Make sure you understand the documentation needed to qualify for reimbursement based on your plan.
Step 3) Pay for Your Massage
When it comes to paying for your massage, most HSA or FSA cards won't allow us to swipe them to pay for the massage. We can try to use your card, just keep in mind that only 20% of HSA or FSA cards seem to go through for payment. Most of our massage clients pay with their personal credit card and then request a receipt to submit for reimbursement from their HSA or FSA.
Step 4) Request a Receipt
When paying for your session, inform your therapist upfront that you'll need a detailed receipt for insurance reimbursement. Your massage therapist can send you a receipt but more importantly, by letting them know you need a receipt for insurance they will submit a request for a specialized receipt to be sent to you by email from Divine Spark. This receipt will be on Divine Spark letter head and include essential details such as the date of service, the therapist's credentials, and a breakdown of the charges. These details are necessary for the processing of your insurance reimbursement. Most standard receipts don't include this information. That's why it's essential to ask your therapist to please send a specialized receipt for insurance reimbursement. The receipt will be sent via email within one business day of the request.
Reminder: Before you Book a year-end massage to be covered by FSA or HSA, Check with Your Insurance Company
Before embarking on your massage journey, it's crucial to reach out to your insurance company directly. Confirm the specifics of your coverage, any required documentation, and the reimbursement process. Understanding these details in advance can save you time and frustration down the line.
You deserve a break and who doesn't need some relaxation time during this busy time of year?
Taking advantage of your HSA or FSA benefits with a therapeutic massage can be a delightful way to prioritize your well-being. By checking your coverage, verifying eligibility and using services like Divine Spark, you can easily navigate the reimbursement process and enjoy the benefits of relaxation and rejuvenation. Remember, communication is key – inform your massage therapist of your intentions, and they can assist you in obtaining the necessary documentation for a seamless reimbursement experience.
