At myHSA, we are committed to supporting your health and well-being, including providing coverage for gender-affirming services. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to claim these services under your Health Spending Account (HSA) and Wellness Spending Account (WSA).
Medical Services for Gender Affirmation
Medical services related to gender affirmation can be covered under your HSA if they meet specific criteria set forth by the CRA. They require us to ask for a letter from your doctor confirming a diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria and the medical necessity for these services. Once you have obtained that, there is a wide range of medical procedures and services that are eligible, including (but not limited to):
Surgeries:
Top Surgery: Mastectomy or breast augmentation.
Bottom Surgery: Phalloplasty, metoidioplasty, vaginoplasty, and other genital reconstruction surgeries.
Facial Feminization Surgery: Procedures to alter facial features to be more feminine.
Facial Masculinization Surgery: Procedures to alter facial features to be more masculine.
Voice Surgery: Procedures to modify the pitch and resonance of the voice.
Hormone Therapy:
Estrogen Therapy: For feminization.
Testosterone Therapy: For masculinization.
Hair Removal:
Laser Hair Removal: Permanent hair removal treatment.
Electrolysis: Permanent hair removal treatment.
Other Medical Services:
Counselling and Therapy: Psychological support for gender dysphoria.
Non-Medical Gender Affirmation Services
Other services that are gender affirming but not strictly medical may be covered under your WSA. These services can be claimed under the "Cosmetic Procedures (Taxable)" category if you have it. If not, you can speak with your employer and ask if a specific category for "Non-Medical Gender Affirmation Expenses (Taxable)." could be added. Here are some examples of what may be claimed under a WSA:
Hair Appointments: Haircuts, styling, and colouring to achieve desired gender expression.
Eyebrow Appointments: Shaping and tinting to enhance facial appearance.
Vocal Speech Lessons or Therapy: Sessions to help modify voice pitch and speaking style.
Nail Appointments: Manicures and pedicures to enhance gender expression.
Makeup Sessions: Professional makeup application and lessons.
Clothing Allowances: Funds to purchase gender-affirming clothing.
Body Contouring: Non-surgical procedures to shape the body.
Always check your list of covered items to make sure you know the scope of your benefit plan prior to making purchases or booking services.
Need Support?
If you have any questions or need further support with your claim, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via live chat or email at support@getmyhsa.com. We’re here to help make the process as comfortable as possible for you. We also keep everything completely private, so there is no risk of this information getting to your employer or anyone else.
At our benefits platform, we are committed to supporting your journey and ensuring you have access to the services you need. We know that understanding how to utilize your HSA and WSA for gender-affirming services can make a significant difference.