Open Enrollment Season: How to Maximize Your FSA/HSA for Diabetes

Open enrollment season is one of the most important times of year for anyone managing diabetes. Whether you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA), this is your chance to plan ahead and stretch every dollar toward the supplies and care you need. With a little smart planning, you can reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly and feel more prepared all year long.

FSA vs. HSA: What's the Difference?

Both accounts let you set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses, but they work a little differently. Knowing which one you have helps you plan your spending wisely.

• FSA (Flexible Spending Account): Employer-sponsored, use-it-or-lose-it by year end

• HSA (Health Savings Account): Paired with a high-deductible health plan, funds roll over year to year

• Both accounts cover a wide range of diabetes-related expenses

• HSA funds can even be invested and grow over time

• Check your employer's benefits portal to confirm which account type you have

What Diabetes Expenses Are FSA/HSA Eligible?

You may be surprised by how many everyday diabetes items qualify for FSA and HSA reimbursement. Stocking up during open enrollment can save you hundreds of dollars annually.

• Blood glucose meters and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)

• Test strips, lancets, and lancing devices

• Insulin and insulin delivery supplies

• Diabetic shoes and orthopedic inserts

• Glucose tablets, gels, and other hypoglycemia treatments

How to Estimate Your Annual Diabetes Supply Needs

Before open enrollment closes, take a few minutes to review what you used this past year. Estimating your needs accurately helps you elect the right contribution amount and avoid leaving money on the table.

• Review past receipts or pharmacy records for annual spending

• Account for seasonal changes, like increased testing during illness

• Factor in any new prescriptions or devices your doctor has recommended

• Add a small buffer for unexpected supplies or replacements

Smart Tips to Maximize Your FSA Before It Expires

FSA funds typically expire at the end of the plan year, so it pays to have a game plan. Don't let hard-earned pre-tax dollars go to waste when they could be funding your diabetes care.

• Set a calendar reminder in October or November to check your balance

• Use remaining funds to stock up on test strips and lancets

• Order backup glucose meters or replacement CGM sensors

• Purchase comfort items like diabetic socks or skin-prep wipes that also qualify

Using Your HSA as a Long-Term Diabetes Savings Tool

If you have an HSA, you have a powerful long-term savings tool at your fingertips. Unlike an FSA, your unused HSA balance rolls over every year and can even grow through investment options. This makes it ideal for managing the ongoing costs of diabetes over time.

How MDS Diabetes Makes It Easy to Spend FSA/HSA Funds

MDS Diabetes carries a wide selection of FSA and HSA eligible diabetes supplies, so you can shop with confidence knowing your dollars are going to work. From test strips and CGM supplies to glucose tablets and lancets, everything you need is in one convenient place. Many of the products at MDS Diabetes are clearly marked as eligible, making reimbursement simple and stress-free.

Shop Diabetes Supplies at MDS Diabetes

Ready to put your FSA or HSA dollars to work? Visit mdsdiabetes.com to browse our full selection of diabetes supplies that are FSA and HSA eligible. Our friendly team is also available to help you find exactly what you need — just call us at (877) 861-3571. Don't let open enrollment season pass without making the most of your benefits!