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

Open enrollment season is one of the most important times of year for people living with diabetes. Whether you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA), this is your chance to plan ahead, save money, and make sure you have everything you need to manage your health confidently all year long.

What Is the Difference Between an FSA and an HSA?

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 diabetes spending more effectively.

• 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 every year

• HSAs earn interest and can even be invested over time

• FSAs may offer a grace period or limited rollover — check your plan details

• Both accounts can be used for a wide range of diabetes supplies and equipment

Why Open Enrollment Is the Perfect Time to Plan for Diabetes Costs

During open enrollment, you decide how much money to contribute to your FSA or HSA for the coming year. If you think ahead about your diabetes expenses now, you can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly throughout the year.

• Estimate your annual costs for test strips, lancets, and CGM sensors

• Factor in insulin, pump supplies, and any new equipment needs

• Review last year's spending to guide this year's contribution amount

• Consider upcoming doctor visits, lab work, and prescription refills

What Diabetes Supplies Are FSA and HSA Eligible?

The good news is that most everyday diabetes supplies qualify as FSA and HSA eligible expenses. Stocking up on these items with pre-tax dollars is one of the smartest ways to stretch your healthcare budget.

• Blood glucose meters and test strips

• Lancets and lancing devices

• Continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensors and receivers

• Insulin pumps and pump supplies

• Insulin and diabetes medications

• Alcohol swabs, syringes, and pen needles

Tips to Maximize Your FSA Before the Deadline

FSA funds typically expire at the end of the plan year, so it is important not to leave money on the table. A little planning now means you can use every dollar you contributed wisely.

• Place orders for supplies you use regularly before December 31st

• Stock up on consumables like test strips, lancets, and pen needles

• Check if your plan offers a grace period or rollover option

• Keep all receipts in case of reimbursement requests

• Review your FSA balance online and set a reminder to spend remaining funds

How to Use Your HSA Strategically for Long-Term Diabetes Care

An HSA is a powerful long-term savings tool because unused funds roll over year after year. If your diabetes expenses are manageable right now, consider letting your HSA balance grow so you have a financial safety net for bigger costs in the future.

How MDS Diabetes Makes It Easy to Use Your Benefits

MDS Diabetes carries a wide selection of FSA and HSA eligible diabetes supplies, making it simple to shop and save all in one place. From test strips and CGM supplies to insulin pump accessories and more, everything you need is just a few clicks away.

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. Make the most of open enrollment season and stock up on the supplies that keep you healthy and confident every day.