On average, workers who do not use the full balance of the Flexible Expenditure Account (FSA) lose a total of approximately US$400 million each year. Jessica Roy wrote for the Los Angeles Times and proposed 11 methods to use before the remaining funds of the FSA expire.

According to Roy, the maximum amount an individual can contribute to the FSA in 2021 is $2,750. Normally, the FSA balance will expire at the end of the year—a person can only carry a small portion of their remaining balance to the next year. Currently, the legal limit is $550, but some plans have lower limits.

However, after many people were forced to skip or delay healthcare visits during the pandemic, Congress changed the 2020 and 2021 rules so that employees of participating organizations can transfer the entire balance to 2022. However, this is not an option for everyone. Roy recommends contacting the benefit provider or human resources department to find out if your workplace is involved.

For those who really need to use up FSA funds before the end of the year — and there are no upcoming medical expenses before the end of the year — Roy offers several ways to "use up your FSA balance", including buying:

1. Covid-19 supplies: For example, masks, hand sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, thermometers, pulse oximeters, home Covid-19 tests. Roy recommends hoarding these items before the holidays.

2. First aid kit: Roy wrote that people should prepare a first aid kit for their home and a first aid kit for their car. For those who already have a first aid kit, Roy recommends using FSA funds to purchase additional supplies such as bandages and ointments.

3. Eye care items: Eye exams (on-site and online), prescription glasses, contact lenses, contact lens solutions, eye drops and lens wipes are all items that meet FSA requirements. According to Roy, sites such as Warby Parker and See Eyewear will allow you to use FSA to pay for new contact lenses or glasses.

4. Menstrual products: Recently, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act made sanitary napkins, tampons and other menstrual products eligible for FSA. Roy wrote that if you feel generous, you can even use your FSA balance to buy supplies and donate them to an organization that helps those in need.

5. Family planning programs: For example, condoms and emergency contraceptives are eligible for FSA spending.

6. Over-the-counter drugs and monitoring equipment: For example, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, certain vitamins and supplements, antacids, painkillers and painkillers, and other over-the-counter drugs are eligible, Roy wrote. In addition, people can buy blood pressure monitors and a large number of diabetes supplies.

7. Baby, pregnancy, and postpartum products: For example, according to Roy, people can buy different types of breast pumps and breastfeeding products, postpartum care products, and even some "optional" baby products.

8. Sun protection and skin care: According to Roy, you can use FSA to buy many acne treatments, eczema creams, and even sunscreens.

9. Massager: "If you have been paying attention to massage sticks, equipment or car seats, this is your opportunity," Roy wrote.

10. Mobility aids: For example, walking sticks, transport chairs and wheelchairs are all eligible for FSA.

11. Home drug testing and smoking cessation aids: If you want to live a healthier life in 2022, Roy writes, you can use your FSA balance to buy these items. (Roy, Los Angeles Times, 12/3)

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