First published: August 2, 2021 / Last updated: January 24, 2026

Are Apple Watches HSA eligible?

If you have a high-deductible health insurance plan (HDHP) or are considering getting one, you may be wondering if you can save money by paying for an Apple Watch with the pre-tax funds in your health savings account (HSA).

Here's the clear answer:

You may be able to use your HSA to pay for an Apple Watch, but only when used to treat, monitor, or manage a diagnosed medical condition and supported by a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a licensed healthcare provider.

Without documented medical necessity, an Apple Watch is considered a general wellness device and is not eligible for HSA reimbursement.

This same eligibility rule applies to flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs).

Apple Watch Eligibility Cheat Sheet

When Specifically Does an Apple Watch Qualify for HSA Coverage?

An Apple Watch may qualify when your doctor determines it is medically necessary to help diagnose, treat, or manage a specific health condition.

Common qualifying medical uses include:

• Heart rhythm monitoring (e.g., atrial fibrillation)
• Blood oxygen monitoring for respiratory conditions
• Activity tracking for obesity treatment plans
• Fall detection for patients at risk of injury
• Mobility tracking for rehabilitation programs
• Chronic condition management (cardiac, pulmonary, neurological)

Your doctor must document this medical purpose in a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).

What Is a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN)?

A Letter of Medical Necessity is a formal document written by your healthcare provider stating that:

• You have a diagnosed medical condition
• An Apple Watch is medically required to treat, monitor, or manage that condition
• The device is not being purchased for general wellness or lifestyle use

This letter is required for:

• HSA reimbursement
• FSA reimbursement
• HRA reimbursement

How to Get an Apple Watch Approved for HSA Reimbursement

1. Speak with your doctor. Discuss whether an Apple Watch could play a medical role in your treatment plan.
2. Obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity. Your provider must complete and sign a formal LMN.
3. Purchase the Apple Watch. Use personal funds or your HSA card if conditional approvals are allowed.
4. Submit reimbursement documentation. Provide your receipt, LMN, and any required claim forms.

Example Letter of Medical Necessity for an Apple Watch

Which Apple Watch Models Are HSA Eligible?

There is no specific Apple Watch model that is automatically HSA eligible.

Eligibility depends entirely on medical necessity, not on:

• Model series
• Price
• Cellular capability
• Case material

With a valid Letter of Medical Necessity, any Apple Watch model may qualify, including:

• Apple Watch SE
• Apple Watch Series 9
• Apple Watch Ultra

Can You Buy an Apple Watch Directly With Your HSA Card?

Sometimes, but it depends on your HSA provider.

Many administrators decline Apple Watch purchases at checkout and instead require manual reimbursement claims.

Best practice: Purchase with personal funds and submit for reimbursement using your LMN.

Apple Watch HSA Eligibility FAQs

Is an Apple Watch FSA eligible?

Yes, under the same medical necessity requirements as HSA.

Is an Apple Watch HRA eligible?

Yes, HRAs follow the same IRS medical necessity guidelines.

Can I use my HSA for Apple Watch fitness tracking?

No, fitness and general wellness uses are not HSA eligible.

Is Apple Watch blood oxygen monitoring HSA eligible?

Possibly, if prescribed for respiratory or cardiac conditions and supported by an LMN.

Can an Apple Watch qualify for heart monitoring?

Yes, cardiac rhythm monitoring is one of the most common qualifying medical uses.

Sources

• Publication 502 - IRS
• Publication 969 - IRS

Disclaimer

This page is intended to be an educational reference only. Please check with your HSA administrator or health insurance provider to confirm if you can pay for an Apple Watch with your HSA card before making any purchases.