Flexible spending account expenses for baby care

When you're expecting, there's a lot of planning involved. From thinking about possible names to picking out colors for the baby room to baby clothes shopping, awaiting your new "bundle of joy" is an exciting time. While you're getting ready for baby, your health plays a huge role - not just for you, but for your baby, too. Feel free to share our tips with (new) moms, if they're curious as to what's covered by an FSA!

Here are 3 ways to prepare for your baby with a Flexible Spending Account:

1. While you eagerly await your baby's arrival, you'll likely be visiting different medical specialists and might be wondering what's covered by a Flexible Spending Account. A lot of services are, but it's good to contact your FSA administrator to find out more details - and what's allowed under your specific FSA plan. FSAstore.com has an FSA Eligibility List that mentions services and products covered by FSAs, as well.

Use an FSA for the following services:

Breastfeeding classes
Gynecologist visits
Birthing classes- could be partially covered with an FSA, as long as these relate to childbirth itself including breathing techniques, stages of labor, labor and delivery procedures and more.
A birthing coach could be covered by a Flexible Spending Account.

**It's best to check your Summary Plan Description, or ask your FSA administrator about eligible expenses.

2. A variety of Baby Care products are also covered by Flexible Spending Accounts.

SHOP FOR MEDELA with your Flexible Spending Account

Breast pumps and breastfeeding accessories-shop for Medela breast pumps and breastfeeding accessories or learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding from Medela.

Prenatal vitamins
Breastfeeding accessories include breast milk storage bottles or bags, and breast pump bustier.
Baby sunscreen is covered, as long as it's SPF 15+.
Baby thermometers are covered by an FSA.
Baby saline spray and baby nasal aspirators are covered.

3. Baby care products covered with a prescription

Not all baby care products are easily available with a Flexible Spending Account.

That includes:

Baby formula is not FSA eligible unless it is for the treatment of a medical condition.
Baby rash ointment - available with a prescription.
Items NOT covered by a Flexible Spending Account include: baby oil and baby powder.