Apple Watch offers advanced health tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, ECG, fall detection, and blood oxygen tracking. Many people wonder if they can use their flexible spending account or health savings account to purchase an Apple Watch.
This guide explores whether an Apple Watch is eligible for FSA reimbursement, what qualifies as a medical expense, and the steps needed to use FSA funds for a smartwatch.
What Is an FSA and How Does It Work?
A flexible spending account allows employees to set aside pre-tax money for eligible medical expenses. It is typically provided through an employer and covers a variety of health-related products and services.
Key Features of an FSA
- Funded with pre-tax dollars
- Can be used for approved medical expenses
- Funds are available at the beginning of the plan year
- Money may expire if not used by the end of the year
Since an Apple Watch includes health tracking features, some people assume it qualifies for FSA reimbursement. However, most smartwatches are considered general consumer electronics rather than medical devices.
Is an Apple Watch FSA Eligible?
In most cases, an Apple Watch does not qualify as an FSA-eligible expense. However, there are exceptions if it is deemed medically necessary by a healthcare provider.
When Can an Apple Watch Qualify for FSA?
An Apple Watch may be eligible for reimbursement if a doctor prescribes it for managing a medical condition. Examples of qualifying conditions include:
- Monitoring heart rate for a diagnosed heart condition
- Using ECG tracking for irregular heartbeat detection
- Fall detection for individuals at risk of falls
- Blood oxygen monitoring for respiratory conditions
If a doctor provides a prescription stating that an Apple Watch is medically necessary, an FSA administrator may approve the expense.
When Is an Apple Watch Not Eligible for FSA?
- If purchased for general fitness tracking or convenience
- If no medical prescription is provided
- If the FSA provider does not recognize smartwatches as medical devices
How to Use an FSA to Buy an Apple Watch
Get a Doctor’s Prescription
An FSA administrator requires medical documentation proving that an Apple Watch is essential for health monitoring.
Check With the FSA Provider
Each FSA provider has different policies. Before purchasing, confirm whether a smartwatch can be classified as a reimbursable medical expense.
Purchase the Apple Watch
If approved, buy the Apple Watch using an FSA debit card or another payment method.
Submit a Reimbursement Claim
If an FSA card is not accepted at checkout, submit a claim with supporting documents, such as:
- A doctor’s prescription
- A detailed purchase receipt
- Additional paperwork required by the FSA provider
Which Apple Watch Models Have the Best Health Features?
Some Apple Watch models include more advanced health tracking, making them more likely to be considered for medical use.
| Apple Watch Model | Health Features | FSA Eligibility |
| Series 4 | ECG, heart rate, fall detection | Possible with medical necessity |
| Series 5 | ECG, heart rate, fall detection | Possible with medical necessity |
| Series 6 | ECG, heart rate, fall detection, blood oxygen monitoring | More likely to qualify |
| Series 7 | ECG, heart rate, fall detection, blood oxygen monitoring | More likely to qualify |
| Series 8 | ECG, heart rate, fall detection, blood oxygen, temperature tracking | More likely to qualify |
| Ultra | ECG, heart rate, fall detection, blood oxygen, temperature tracking | More likely to qualify |
The newer models with ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, and fall detection have a higher chance of being approved for FSA use if prescribed by a doctor.
Alternatives to Apple Watch That Are FSA Eligible
If an Apple Watch is not approved for FSA reimbursement, several alternative medical devices are automatically eligible.
FSA-Eligible Health Devices
| Device | Purpose |
| Blood Pressure Monitor | Tracks blood pressure readings |
| Pulse Oximeter | Measures blood oxygen saturation |
| Heart Rate Monitor | Tracks heart rate during physical activity |
| Medical Alert System | Provides emergency assistance for falls |
These devices are recognized as medical equipment and do not require special approval for FSA reimbursement.
How Apple Watch Compares to Traditional Medical Devices
| Feature | Apple Watch | FSA-Eligible Medical Device |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| ECG Tracking | Yes | Limited models available |
| Blood Oxygen Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Fall Detection | Yes | Limited to medical alert systems |
| Requires a Prescription for FSA Use | Yes | No |
| Covered by FSA Without Extra Approval | No | Yes |
For those who require continuous health monitoring, an Apple Watch offers convenience. However, traditional medical devices may be a better option for guaranteed FSA approval.
Steps to Check FSA Eligibility Before Purchasing
Confirm With the FSA Provider
Since rules vary by provider, checking FSA guidelines before making a purchase is the best way to avoid issues.
Obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity
A doctor’s prescription or letter explaining why the device is needed increases the chances of approval.
Use an FSA Debit Card
If pre-approved, the FSA debit card may be accepted at checkout.
Keep Receipts and Documentation
If paying out of pocket, submit receipts and necessary documents for reimbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy an Apple Watch with FSA funds?
Only if a doctor prescribes it for a medical condition and the FSA provider approves the purchase.
Does an Apple Watch qualify as a medical device?
Apple Watch is not officially classified as a medical device, but its health tracking features may qualify for medical necessity under certain conditions.
Can I use an HSA to buy an Apple Watch?
An HSA follows similar rules as an FSA, meaning it may cover an Apple Watch if medically necessary and approved.
Is an Apple Watch covered under FSA without a prescription?
No, it must be prescribed by a doctor and approved by the FSA provider.
What are better FSA-eligible alternatives?
Blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, and heart rate monitors are fully FSA eligible without requiring a prescription.
An Apple Watch is generally not FSA eligible unless it is prescribed for medical purposes. The best way to determine eligibility is to check with the FSA provider, obtain a doctor’s prescription, and submit the required documentation.
For those needing health monitoring but unable to get FSA approval, other medical devices such as blood pressure monitors and pulse oximeters may be better options.