Can you believe it? 2025 is more than halfway over! That means we’re gearing up for the holiday season — and FSA deadlines are gonna be here before you know it.
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), now is the perfect opportunity to use those funds in one of the most impactful ways — for orthodontic treatment!
Many FSA funds expire at the end of the year, so don’t let that money go to waste. Your team at First Impression Orthodontics in Alexandria is here to provide affordable orthodontics and help you make the most of your FSA.
Here’s everything you need to know:
What is an FSA, and how does it work?
An FSA, or Flexible Spending Account, is a special account set up by your employer that allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to save for qualified medical expenses. Because your contributions are taken out before tax is applied, you get more value for your money.
FSAs are awesome, because they can be used for a range of healthcare needs, including orthodontic treatment.
Most FSA funds must be used by the end of the year, or they expire. That’s why it’s so important to act now if you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment. Don’t let those funds go to waste!
What about HSAs for braces or clear aligners?
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are similar to FSAs, but have a few key differences. These accounts are owned by you (not employer-owned like FSAs) and allow you to make contributions with pre-tax income. The funds in your HSA can also accrue interest, and any growth is tax-free.
FSA vs HSA:
- FSA: These accounts are generally “use it or lose it,” meaning the funds must be spent by the end of the year. FSAs are flexible in what they cover, including orthodontics. These savings accounts do not accrue interest.
- HSA: Funds in an HSA can roll over year after year. Not everyone is eligible for an HSA, and they’re typically tied to high-deductible health plans. Health Savings Accounts do earn interest.
Can you use your FSA for orthodontics?
Absolutely! Orthodontic treatments, like braces and clear aligners, are FSA-eligible expenses. Whether you’re interested in orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, FSA funds can cover a significant part of the cost.
At First Impression Orthodontics, we accept FSA payments, and we’re more than happy to explain the process and help you to get the best value from your account. If you have any questions, just reach out to us!
We provide different types of braces options to suit your lifestyle –
- High efficiency self-ligating (tie-less braces) in metal or clear ceramic
- Custom clear aligners (Invisalign®, Angel Aligner™ and our own in-house aligners)
Do you have to use your FSA by the end of the year?
In most cases, yes! Be sure to check with your employer to confirm the exact deadline for FSA spending and avoid losing any of your hard-earned funds.
Can you use HSA for braces?
Yes, orthodontic treatments are eligible expenses for Health Savings Accounts too! If you need braces or clear aligners to correct crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gapped teeth, a bite misalignment or another orthodontic issue, applying your HSA funds can reduce your out-of-pocket cost significantly.
While you don’t have to use your HSA funds by the end of the year, it’s always a smart move to double-check with your HSA provider to understand your account’s specifics and make sure you’re getting the most out of your savings.
Using FSA for Braces and Clear Aligners
If you’re considering braces or clear aligners for you or your child, using your FSA pre-tax dollars is a smart way to get the most value for your buck.
At First Impression Orthodontics, we’re recognized as one of the region’s top orthodontists with flexible financing and a personalized treatment experience.
We’ll create a custom financing plan with 0% interest in-house financing that makes clear aligners and braces affordable.
Are clear aligners FSA eligible? You bet!
Thinking about using FSA for clear aligners? Good news: clear aligners are FSA eligible!
Clear aligners are a popular choice for teens and adults in Alexandria and the DMV area. They’re virtually-invisible and custom-designed to fit your smile snugly. You have the freedom to take them out to eat and clean your teeth, and they’re undetectable when you smile.
Book a complimentary consultation to apply those FSA or HSA funds, and begin your 2025 transformation!
How to Use FSA Money Before the End of the Year
If you’re ready to use your FSA funds for orthodontic treatment, here’s how to do it in three simple steps:
- Check your FSA balance: Log in to your FSA account and see how much money you’ve racked up!
- Book a consultation with us: Book a complimentary consultation with us at our Alexandria orthodontic office. We’ll reach out to schedule your appointment ASAP, and we can answer any questions you have regarding your FSA coverage and upcoming smile transformation.
- Start smiling: On your first visit, you’ll sit down with one of our friendly treatment coordinators who will walk you through the financing process: applying your FSA funds and understanding your insurance benefit (we’ll do all the paperwork for you). We’ll create a custom FSA braces payment plan that makes the cost of braces or the cost of clear aligners work for your budget.
Take the first step today.
Don’t let those FSA deadlines sneak up on you—make the most of your savings now and step into 2026 with a smile that lights up the room!
Using your FSA funds can feel like a race against time — but we’re here to guide you through the process! Book your complimentary consultation with us, and we’ll take it from there.
Come see your orthodontist, Dr. Lu, and our team at our orthodontic office in Alexandria!
