TL;DR
Breast pumps, including electric, manual, wearable, and many hospital-grade models, are generally eligible for purchase with FSA or HSA funds. Many replacement parts and lactation accessories may also qualify. Most purchases do not require a prescription, but documentation requirements can vary by plan, so keep an itemized receipt and confirm eligibility before buying.
Medically reviewed by Poonam Patel, RN-BSN, CPNP
Are breast pumps FSA eligible?
Yes. Breast pumps are FSA-eligible. The IRS recognizes breast pumps and many lactation supplies as qualified medical expenses under Internal Revenue Code Section 213(d), making them eligible for reimbursement through both FSA and HSA accounts. However, excess bottles purchased only for food storage may not qualify.
Whether you are purchasing your first breast pump, upgrading to a wearable model, or replacing eligible parts, using FSA or HSA funds can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Breast pumps generally do not require a prescription for FSA reimbursement, although you should keep an itemized receipt and check whether your plan administrator requires additional documentation.
This guide explains which breast pumps and accessories qualify, how reimbursement works, and what to check before making a purchase.
Which breast pumps and accessories are FSA-eligible?
FSA and HSA funds can generally be used for breast pumps and supplies that directly support lactation. And, FSA does not limit coverage by pump type. Most major breast pump types qualify, while accessory eligibility depends on how the product supports lactation.
Commonly eligible breast pump types include:
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Manual pumps: Small, lightweight, and operated by hand, which work well for occasional pumping, short trips, or as a backup when an electric pump is not available.
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Single electric pumps: These pumps use a motor to pump one breast at a time. They are more efficient than manual pumps and can work well for occasional or moderate pumping.
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Corded double electric pumps: By pumping both breasts at once, these models can shorten each session. They work well for regular pumping at home or at a desk, where an outlet is easily available.
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Battery-powered double electric pumps: Built for greater mobility, these pumps provide double pumping without requiring a wall outlet, making them practical for work, travel, or busy days away from home.
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Wearable or hands-free pumps: Designed to fit inside a bra, wearable pumps allow more freedom to move around while working, commuting, caring for a baby, or completing everyday tasks.
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Hospital-grade pumps: These higher-powered pumps are built for frequent use and may be recommended for establishing milk supply, supporting premature infants, or helping when a baby has difficulty nursing.
Each of these serves a different pumping routine, but none of that changes how your FSA treats the purchase. The right pump depends on your lifestyle and pumping needs rather than eligibility, since your FSA treats all of them the same way.
Can you use your FSA for breast pump accessories?
Yes, many replacement parts and accessories used directly with a breast pump may also qualify for FSA reimbursement, including:
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Replacement parts: Breast shields, valves, tubing, and spare parts help create a proper fit and may need to be replaced as sizing or pumping needs change.
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Breast pump car adapter: Lets you power a corded pump on the go, useful for pumping during commutes or travelling.
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Battery pack: keeps a corded pump running when you're away from an outlet, a common add-on for pumps that aren't naturally portable.
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Pump replacement valves: small parts that lose suction over time and typically need swapping every few months.
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Pump replacement tubing: Helps maintain pump performance and should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Milk collection containers: Bottles or containers used directly with the breast pump may qualify.
Overall, milk collectors and storage containers used with a breast pump are generally eligible, while standard baby feeding bottles purchased solely for feeding may not be. If you're building a full pumping setup, it's worth checking each item individually before checkout. Accessories bundled with non-eligible products can sometimes cause an FSA card transaction to be declined.
Items purchased mainly for convenience or general food storage, such as excess bottles, may not qualify. You can check the product’s eligibility and keep an itemized receipt for your records.
How to check if your FSA plan covers breast pump and accessories
The fastest way to confirm FSA coverage for breast pump and accessories is to check directly with your plan before you buy. A few reliable options that work well here are:
1. Contact your FSA administrator directly
Your plan administrator can confirm which breast pumps and accessories your specific plan covers, along with any documentation or claim submission requirements. This is the most reliable way to get a definitive answer.
2. Log into your member portal
Many FSA providers list eligible expenses within their online member portals. This is often the quickest way to check coverage without making a phone call.
3. Check the FSAFEDS eligible expense list
Federal employees can review the eligible expense list provided by FSAFEDS, which includes breast pumps and certain related supplies. Keep in mind that this resource applies specifically to federal FSA plans, not private employer plans.
4. Check with the retailer or supplier
Many retailers, including WellBefore, clearly label eligible breastfeeding products on their product pages. This can help you identify qualifying items while you shop.
5. Look for an “FSA-Eligible” label
Major retailers often mark qualifying products with an “FSA-eligible” label. This is a helpful indicator, but you should still confirm coverage with your plan administrator, especially if the product includes bundled accessories or requires additional documentation.
How to receive reimbursement for breast pumps
To receive reimbursement for a breast pump, you can pay with a regular debit or credit card and submit an itemized receipt to your FSA plan administrator. The receipt should include the product name, purchase date, amount paid, and retailer information.
You may also be able to pay directly with your FSA card at checkout. If the card is declined, pay using another method and submit a reimbursement claim through your member portal or plan administrator.
Keep detailed receipts, including the product name and purchase date, since some plans require documentation before releasing funds. Most Health FSA funds are subject to a use-it-or-lose-it rule, although some employer-sponsored plans offer either a grace period or a limited carryover.
Where to buy breast pumps that are FSA/HSA eligible
Not every online breast pump listing clearly states whether the purchase qualifies for reimbursement. Eligibility may also depend on what is included in the order. For example, if a bundle contains both eligible and non-eligible items, reimbursement may vary by plan.
WellBefore offers a wide selection of FSA and HSA eligible breast pumps, including wearable, double electric, manual, and more hospital-grade models from brands such as Spectra, Medela, Motif, Evenflo, Lansinoh, and Philips Avent.
The collection also includes eligible accessories such as replacement shields, valves, tubing, and milk storage bags, making it easier to restock your pumping supplies in one place.
Conclusion
Breast pumps are FSA and HSA eligible across most types and many leading brands, as are most of the accessories that go with them.
Whether you need an electric breast pump for daily use, a manual pump as backup, or replacement parts to keep your current setup running, your FSA or HSA funds may cover the cost. Since this money is already set aside for exactly this kind of purchase, using it makes more financial sense than paying out of pocket.
WellBefore carries FSA and HSA eligible breast pumps and accessories from trusted brands, all clearly tagged so you know what qualifies before you check out. Explore today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy a breast pump using my FSA or HSA funds to minimize expenses?
Check your plan's eligible items list first, then shop at a retailer that clearly tags FSA/HSA eligible products. Paying directly with your FSA or HSA card can help you avoid reimbursement delays. Keep in mind that FSA spending deadlines do not apply to HSA funds.
Can I use my FSA/HSA card to purchase a breast pump?
Yes. You can generally use your FSA or HSA card to purchase a breast pump, just as you would use a regular debit card. If your card is declined, you can pay out of pocket and submit your receipt for reimbursement instead.
Are breast pumps HSA/FSA eligible?
Yes, breast pumps are eligible under both HSA and FSA accounts. Many related accessories, such as replacement parts and milk storage bags, may also qualify. Electric, wearable, manual, and hospital-grade breast pumps are generally eligible.
Are breast milk storage bags FSA eligible?
Yes, most breast milk storage bags designed specifically for collecting and storing expressed milk qualify as FSA and HSA eligible. General food storage bags or containers intended for everyday household use typically do not.
Can you use your Health Savings Account (HSA) for breast pumps?
Yes, you can use an HSA to purchase an eligible breast pump. Unused HSA funds roll over from year to year and are not subject to a use-it-or-lose-it deadline.
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