Qualified medical expenses for Archer MSA purposes or unreimbursed medical expenses that could be deducted on Schedule A Form 1040 include amounts paid for medical care, such as doctor visits, surgeries, prescription medications, and medical devices.
Dental and vision expenses may also be considered qualified medical expenses, as well as certain types of therapy and mental health services. Menstrual care products are also treated as paid for medical care. Insurance premiums are generally not considered qualified medical expenses, unless they are for long-term care insurance, health care continuation coverage, or health care coverage while receiving unemployment compensation under federal or state law.
To be eligible for an Archer MSA, an individual must have a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). An HDHP is a health plan that meets certain requirements, including a minimum annual deductible and maximum annual out-of-pocket expenses.
It’s important to note that an individual with an Archer MSA and their spouse cannot have any health coverage other than an HDHP, unless it is for limited exceptions such as coverage for accidents, disability, dental care, vision care, or long-term care.
It’s also important to refer to the instructions for Schedule A Form 1040 and publication 502 for more information on what qualifies as a medical expense and the limitations for deducting medical expenses on Schedule A. While there may be some gray areas, it’s important to ensure that any expenses claimed as qualified medical expenses meet the necessary requirements.