Every year, Americans forfeit billions of dollars in unspent FSA funds. If you have a Flexible Spending Account, that money is yours — but only if you use it before your plan's deadline.
How the use-it-or-lose-it rule works
FSA contributions come out of your paycheck pre-tax, and most plans require you to spend the balance by the end of the plan year (often December 31). Some employers offer one of two softeners: a grace period of roughly 2.5 extra months, or a carryover of a limited amount into the next year — but never both, and many plans offer neither. Whatever isn't spent in time goes back to your employer.
Your plan documents (or a quick note to HR) will tell you which rules apply to you.
What you can spend it on
Prescriptions, copays, dental and vision care, and many over-the-counter health items are eligible automatically. Dietary supplements generally are not — unless a licensed practitioner documents that they support a specific health need for you, via a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).
That last category is where most people leave money on the table, because they assume wellness purchases can't qualify. With modern LMN platforms, many can.
Using FSA dollars on &mind
&mind partners with Flex to handle the LMN process at checkout:
- Add the AM + PM Daily Wellness Set — a 30-day supply of our morning focus formula and evening wind-down formula* — to your cart.
- Select Flex at checkout and complete a short online health evaluation.
- If you qualify, pay with your FSA card directly, or submit the documentation for reimbursement.
New to &mind? The $9.99 two-day trial is a low-risk way to start, and full-size orders are covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee.
A practical year-end checklist
Check your FSA balance, confirm your plan's deadline and whether you have a grace period or carryover, submit any outstanding receipts for reimbursement, and put remaining funds toward eligible health purchases you'd make anyway — rather than letting them expire.
This article is general information, not tax, legal, or medical advice. Eligibility depends on your specific plan — confirm details with your plan administrator.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
