Winter health preparedness: How employers can help employees use HSAs and FSAs for seasonal wellness
As temperatures drop and winter illnesses surge, employers have an important opportunity to help employees prepare for the season ahead. Winter is one of the highest utilization periods for healthcare, and employees often need guidance on how to make the most of their Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
With cold and flu season underway and year-end FSA deadlines approaching for many, now is the time to communicate the saving advantages of HSAs and timely spending opportunities with FSAs.
Stock up on eligible over-the-counter essentials: Cold weather often brings an increase in respiratory illnesses, dry skin, and minor injuries. While HSA users may want to preserve their long-term advantaged savings where possible, FSA users can confidently use remaining funds on everyday items before they expire.
Employers can help by reminding employees that HSAs/FSAs can be used for:
Cold & Flu relief
Cough syrups and lozenges
Fever reducers
Decongestants
Allergy and sinus medications
Hydrating ointments and creams
Bandages and wound care supplies
Nasal saline sprays
Lip treatments for dry or cracked skin
Thermometers
At-home COVID-19 or flu tests
Hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes
These simple essentials are perfect for FSA users who need to spend down balances, and a smart intentional purchase for HSA users who are preparing for the season.Promote medical device upgrades: Winter is a good time to check the condition of commonly used medical devices, especially if an FSA account is “use it or lose it” and funds will expire on December 31. Eligible products include:
Respiratory health equipment
Humidifiers (HSA/FSA-eligible with a doctor’s note)
Nebulizers
Pulse oximeters
Blood pressure monitors
Glucose testing supplies
CPAP supplies and replacement parts
First aid kits
Mobility and daily living aids
Heating pads
Braces for knees, wrists, and ankles
Orthotic inserts
By replacing aging equipment early, employees can ensure it’s ready when colder weather brings more flare-ups of chronic conditions.
Schedule preventive care before deductibles reset: Winter preparedness isn’t just about tools and supplies, it’s also about staying ahead of potential health issues.
Important winter-season appointments
Flu shots
COVID-19 boosters
Preventive screenings
Annual physicals
Vision and dental checkups
For employees who have met their deductible, December can be a smart time to schedule care before costs reset on January 1.
Support employee mental wellbeing during shorter days: The shift to colder, darker months can also affect mental health. Some remedies and services may be eligible under your plan, such as:
Therapy or counseling sessions
Light therapy lamps (with documentation)
Sleep aids
Certain stress-relief or condition-specific treatments
A holistic approach to winter health includes both physical and mental wellness.
Remind employees to check their FSA balance and plan strategically: As year-end approaches, employees need to understand their remaining FSA balances and how much time they have to use their funds. Employers can help eliminate confusion by clearly communicating.
Smart employee year-end moves:
Review current FSA balance
Refill essential supplies before they run out
Consider increasing HSA contributions for 2026
Assess what was used most this year to plan next year's elections
Help your workforce stay healthy all winter
Winter preparedness is more than a seasonal reminder; it’s a chance to help employees protect their health, reduce winter-related absences, and maximize the value of the benefits you offer.
By maximizing your FSA funds before they expire and using your HSA intentionally while continuing to save, you can stay healthier, reduce stress, and make the most of your benefits before the calendar resets.