FSA Coverage Stelo CGM Tips (2026) | HSA Tracker

Before buying Stelo, contact your FSA administrator or check their online eligible expenses list. While Dexcom markets it as eligible, your specific plan may have a processing delay for new OTC products.

The 2026 health FSA limit is $3,400. Factor the cost of Stelo into your annual election during open enrollment to ensure you have enough pre-tax funds allocated.

FSA reimbursement requires a receipt showing date, merchant name, item description (Dexcom Stelo), and amount paid. A bank statement alone is often insufficient.

Stelo is OTC, so you don't need a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN). This simplifies the reimbursement process compared to prescription CGMs, which often require an LMN for FSA.

Some FSA plans handle subscription reimbursements differently than one-time purchases. They may require you to submit a claim for each monthly charge.

Stelo is for adults not using insulin. Using FSA funds for an ineligible user (like a child or someone on insulin) could make the expense non-qualified and trigger an audit.

Research the Abbott Lingo, the other main OTC CGM. Compare costs, sensor wear time, and app features to decide which offers better value for your FSA dollars.

If you have unused FSA money near the plan year-end, buying a Stelo starter pack can be a good way to use those funds, especially if your plan has the $680 carryover option for 2026.

Self-employed individuals using an HSA for Stelo should inform their tax preparer. The expense is qualified, but proper classification ensures no issues with IRS Form 8889.

If you use the Stelo subscription, set a monthly phone reminder to download and save your receipt immediately after the charge hits your credit card.

Some FSA debit cards may not work on the Dexcom website for OTC items. Know your plan's policy: can you use the card, or must you pay and get reimbursed?

If you have an HSA with a High Deductible Health Plan, buying Stelo with HSA funds helps you meet your deductible with pre-tax money while tracking a health metric.

Major retailers like CVS or Amazon may have specific FSA store sections. Check if Stelo is listed in those sections, as it can simplify the purchase and receipt process.

A Limited-Purpose FSA (LPFSA) for 2026 also has a $3,400 limit but typically covers only dental and vision. Stelo, as a medical device, is likely not eligible under an LPFSA.

Create a folder in your email or cloud drive specifically for Stelo receipts and FSA correspondence. This organizes documentation in case of an IRS inquiry.

The $89/month is for sensors only. Remember you need a smartphone compatible with the Stelo app. This is not an FSA expense, but it is a required cost.

You can use FSA funds for a spouse or tax-dependent who meets the user criteria (18+, not on insulin). Their medical expenses are qualified under your FSA.

IRS rules for medical expenses can change. While OTC glucose monitors are currently eligible, staying informed protects you from accidental non-qualified spending.

If you currently buy glucose test strips and lancets with FSA funds, calculate if Stelo's continuous data is worth the higher monthly cost compared to your current intermittent testing.

If your FSA claim for Stelo is denied, contact the administrator immediately with Dexcom's marketing material stating it's a qualified expense. Early dispute resolution is key.