Now is a smart time to check your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) balance before the end of the year.
If you’ve been considering using your FSA for braces or Invisalign® treatment, those funds may be able to help cover eligible orthodontic expenses.
Depending on your employer’s plan, unused FSA funds may need to be spent by the end of the plan year.
Dr. Albert, our board-certified orthodontist in Simi Valley, can help you understand your treatment costs, insurance benefits, and payment options before the end-of-year rush.
Here’s what to check now so you can make the most of your 2026 benefits.
An FSA (Flexible Spending Account) is typically offered through an employer and allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified healthcare expenses. Because the rules for unused funds can vary by employer, it’s important to check your plan before year-end.
An HSA (Health Savings Account) is available to eligible individuals enrolled in qualifying high-deductible health plans. Unlike FSA funds, your HSA balance belongs to you and can continue rolling over from year to year.
Key Points: Using Your FSA or HSA for Orthodontics
- Braces and Invisalign® treatment are generally FSA- and HSA-eligible expenses, so you may be able to use pre-tax healthcare dollars toward treatment.
- Many FSA plans have a year-end spending deadline. Check your specific plan now to see how much you have left and when you need to use it.
- HSA funds roll over from year to year, so there typically isn’t the same year-end deadline to spend your balance.
- FSA funds and orthodontic insurance benefits can generally work together to help cover eligible treatment expenses.
- You don’t have to wait until December to start planning. Scheduling a complimentary consultation now gives you time to understand your treatment costs, benefits, and payment options before the end-of-year rush.
Before Year-End: Check These 4 Things
Before you start making plans for your remaining FSA funds, take a few minutes to find out exactly what benefits are available to you.1. How much is left in your FSA?
Start by checking your current FSA balance. Because FSA contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, using those funds for eligible healthcare expenses can help you make the most of money you’ve already set aside. If orthodontic treatment is on your to-do list, knowing how much you have available can help you plan for the cost of braces or Invisalign.2. When do your FSA funds expire?
Many FSA plans have a year-end spending deadline, but the exact rules depend on your employer’s plan. Some employers may offer a limited grace period or allow a portion of unused funds to carry over into the following plan year. Check with your employer, HR department, or FSA administrator to confirm your specific 2026 FSA deadline and what happens to any unused balance.3. Do you have orthodontic insurance benefits?
If your dental insurance includes orthodontic coverage, those benefits may help reduce your out-of-pocket treatment costs too. At Soul Orthodontics, we accept many dental insurance plans and will help calculate your orthodontic benefits and handle the paperwork for you.4. Have you scheduled your orthodontic consultation?
You don’t have to wait until December to start planning. Scheduling a complimentary consultation now gives you time to explore your treatment options, understand the cost, and determine how your available benefits may apply.Can I Use My FSA for Braces or Invisalign?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment is generally considered an eligible medical expense for FSA funds, which means you may be able to use your FSA for braces or Invisalign treatment for yourself, your spouse, or an eligible dependent. At Soul Orthodontics, our team can help make the financial side of treatment easier to understand.- Accept FSA and HSA payments for eligible orthodontic expenses
- Help you understand your treatment costs and payment options
- Provide itemized receipts and documentation when needed
- Calculate applicable orthodontic insurance benefits and file claims on your behalf
- Create a personalized payment plan that works for your family
FSA vs. HSA for Orthodontics: What’s the Difference?
Both Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can generally be used toward eligible orthodontic expenses, but there are some important differences.| FSA | HSA | |
|---|---|---|
| Can it be used for eligible orthodontic expenses? | Yes | Yes |
| Does the balance roll over? | Depends on your employer’s plan | Yes |
| Is there a year-end spending deadline? | For most plans, yes | No annual “use it or lose it” deadline |
| Who owns the account? | Employer-established | Individual |
| Can funds be used for braces or Invisalign? | Generally, yes | Generally, yes |
