Don't Lose Your FSA Dollars: Using Pre-Tax Benefits for Austin Hearing Care

‍Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) balance doesn't carry over to next year—and hearing aids are fully FSA and HSA eligible. If you've been considering hearing aids or have funds left in your account, now is the time to act before your dollars expire on December 31st.

At Victory Hearing & Balance, we accept FSA and HSA payments for hearing aids, fittings, and ongoing care. Here's what you need to know about maximizing your pre-tax benefits for hearing healthcare in the Austin area.

Understanding FSA and HSA Funds

FSA and HSA accounts let you pay for qualified medical expenses with pre-tax dollars, effectively saving you 30-40% compared to paying out-of-pocket. However, these accounts work differently:

FSA (Flexible Spending Account): These funds typically expire on December 31st. Some employers offer a grace period or allow you to roll over a small amount (up to $640 in 2025), but most of your balance will be forfeited if unused. This "use-it-or-lose-it" rule makes year-end FSA planning critical.

HSA (Health Savings Account): Unlike FSAs, HSA funds roll over indefinitely and remain yours even if you change jobs. While there's no year-end pressure, using these funds strategically for hearing care makes sense if you have hearing concerns.

What Hearing Care Services Are FSA/HSA Eligible?

Your pre-tax accounts can cover more than just hearing aids. Eligible expenses include:

• Hearing aids (all models and technology levels)
• Hearing aid batteries and accessories
• Comprehensive hearing evaluations
• Real Ear Measurement fittings (the gold-standard verification process we use)
• Hearing aid repairs and maintenance
• Follow-up adjustments and fine-tuning

At Victory Hearing & Balance, we provide detailed receipts with appropriate diagnosis codes, making reimbursement straightforward.

Why Hearing Aids Are a Smart FSA Investment

One in three adults over 65 experiences hearing loss, yet many delay treatment. Using FSA dollars removes the financial barrier to getting help now rather than waiting until the issue worsens.

Modern hearing aids have evolved significantly. Today's devices offer features like Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and artificial intelligence that adapts to your listening environment. Options like the Oticon Intent, Starkey Edge AI, ReSound Vivia, and Widex Allure provide exceptional speech clarity and all-day comfort.

Our fitting process includes Real Ear Measurement, which verifies that your hearing aids are programmed precisely for your unique ear anatomy. This evidence-based practice—recommended by the American Academy of Audiology—ensures you receive optimal benefit from your investment.

The FSA Year-End Timeline

If you have FSA funds available, here's what to consider:

By late October: Schedule a hearing evaluation. This gives you time to test hearing aids and complete the fitting process before year-end.

November-December: Complete your hearing aid fitting and finalize payment. Processing times vary, so don't wait until the last week of December.

Check your balance: Log into your FSA portal to see exactly what's available. Even if you don't think you have enough for hearing aids, smaller balances can cover batteries, accessories, or evaluations.

Beyond FSAs: Payment Options at Victory Hearing & Balance

We understand that hearing care is an investment. In addition to FSA/HSA, we work with patients to find solutions that fit their budget. Many find that combining their year-end FSA balance with other payment methods makes quality hearing care accessible.

Take Action Before December 31st

Hearing loss affects more than just your ears—research links untreated hearing loss to cognitive decline, social isolation, and increased fall risk. Using your FSA dollars for hearing care isn't just about spending the money; it's about investing in your long-term health and quality of life.

Our West Lake Hills and Hutto locations serve the greater Austin area, including Round Rock, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Cedar Park, and Leander. Dr. Jill Davis and our team provide comprehensive care that goes beyond just fitting hearing aids—we focus on your complete auditory and cognitive health.

Don't let your FSA dollars disappear. Contact Victory Hearing & Balance at (512) 443-3500 to schedule your hearing evaluation and discover how pre-tax benefits can make quality hearing care more affordable. Your ears—and your budget—will thank you.