Meghann Brunberg, ATC/L, CMT

In order to use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) or to file a claim with your insurance for massage therapy, there are usually a few steps to take.  Here are the the basics:

• Obtain a prescription for massage therapy.  Most medical practitioners are willing to provide this.  I do not need the prescription, however, if you'd like to provide a copy for your file, I will gladly accept it.  The prescription should include: 
• Length of treatment (i.e. 2 times a week for 4-6 weeks)
• Duration of treatment (i.e. 45 minute therapeutic massage)
• Reason for prescription (i.e. chronic low back pain)                      
• Schedule your massage appointment
• Obtain a "medical receipt."  I can partially prepare this for you in advance if you tell me before your appointment(s), and mail it to your address on record.
• Send in the prescription and medical receipt to your FSA/HSA.  Some FSA/HSA may ask for the treatment note, which I can provide upon request.  I gnenerally combine the note with billing codes, and this is usually sufficient.
  

What is an FSA?

A flexible spending account (FSA) is a tax-advantaged financial account that allows an employee to set aside a portion of his or her earnings to pay for qualified expenses, most commonly for medical expenses, and is offered through an employer’s cafeteria plan. Money deducted from an employee’s pay into an FSA is not subject to payroll taxes, resulting in a substantial payroll tax savings. The medical expense FSA (also medical FSA or health FSA), is similar to a health savings account (HSA), but medical FSA's are commonly offered with more traditional health plans. With most FSA plans, you must use up your funds each year.

What is an HSA?

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged medical savings account available to people who are enrolled in a high deductible health plan. The funds contributed to the account are not subject to federal income tax at the time of deposit. HSA's are owned by the individual, and funds may be used to pay for qualified medical expenses at any time without federal tax liability. Unlike an FSA, funds roll over to the next year if not spent.

Source:http://www.helium.com/items/1245749-flexible-spending-account-for-massage