Use It or Lose It: Maximizing Your FSA or HSA Before Year-End

As the year winds down, many people overlook an important opportunity: making the most of their Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). Without a plan, unused FSA dollars can expire, and potential HSA benefits can slip by. 

Continue reading to explore which products your funds can be used for and how American Hospital Supply can support you in getting the most value before the year ends.

FSA vs. HSA: What You’re Working With

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

• Use-it-or-lose-it. Unused funds typically disappear at year-end.
• Some plans offer a 2.5-month grace period or a small rollover, but not both.
• Broad coverage for medical and healthcare essentials.
• Funds belong to your employer — once they expire, they’re gone.

Health Savings Account (HSA)

• Only available with a high-deductible health plan (HDHP).
• No expiration — ever. Funds roll over indefinitely.
• Triple tax advantage: tax-free contributions, growth, and qualified withdrawals.
• Acts like a long-term health and retirement savings tool.

1. Incontinence Products (100% Eligible)

One of the most overlooked FSA/HSA categories — and one of the most practical.

Great for caregivers, seniors, long-term care, and home clinical use.

Stock up on:

• Incontinence briefs
• Protective underwear
• Pads & liners
• Underpads
• Wipes

2. Diagnostic & Medical Equipment

These are high-impact tools that families, clinics, and individuals use constantly.

Eligible items include:

• Blood pressure monitors
• Glucose testers
• Pulse oximeters
• Thermometers
• Nebulizers
• Stethoscopes
• First-aid kits

3. Emergency Preparedness & Safety

If there’s one category people overlook but absolutely need, it’s home and workplace emergency equipment.

Eligible options include:

• First-aid supplies
• CPR Supplies
• Emergency medical kits
• Bleeding control kits
• AEDs*
  (Many AED purchases are eligible with proper documentation.)

4. OTC Health Essentials

Perfect for rounding out leftover FSA funds.

Eligible products include:

• Pain relief medication
• Allergy relief
• Cold & flu essentials
• Digestive health products
• Sunscreen
• Heating/cooling therapy products

5. Mobility & Home Care Support

Critical for aging adults and recovery patients.

Eligible purchases include:

• Mobility aids
• Supports & braces
• Bathroom safety equipment
• Cushions & pressure-relief items

Year-End Buying Strategy for Maximum Value

If you have an FSA:

Spend the remaining balance immediately on essentials — incontinence, diagnostics, emergency supplies, and OTC products are the safest bets.

If you have an HSA:

Contribute as much as possible, especially if your employer matches. Then use HSA funds for big-ticket, long-term purchases like AEDs or diagnostic equipment.

If you have both:

Use your FSA first.
Use your HSA for investment growth or long-term purchases.

Why Buy from American Hospital Supply Before Year-End?

• Medical-grade brands your customers already trust (Tena®, LifeVac, AED brands, etc.)
• Fast shipping
• Products eligible for FSA/HSA reimbursement
• Competitive pricing
• Customer support that actually picks up the phone