For USA bespoke shoe wearers, have you ever used HSA/FSA funds to buy bespoke shoes?

[arctansusan]

Articles like https://flowfeet.com/blog/16_hsa-reimbursment-diabetic-shoes-inserts.html gives me the impression that I can reimburse myself after I place an order for bespoke shoes. Have you ever used HSA/FSA funds to buy bespoke shoes if you are in USA and have a foot problem that is verifiable by a podiatrist? I think bespoke shoes are the best shoes for those with flat feet.

 

[breakaway01]

Do you mean trying to pay for a pair of JLP or other high end bespoke shoe with FSA/HSA funds? Besides this being highly dubious from an ethical standpoint, I believe you will need a letter of medical necessity describing why those specific shoes are necessary for your foot condition. A letter stating that you have flat feet won’t cut it.

 

[arctansusan]

Yes, I'm thinking of buying high end shoes with FSA/HSA funds, even with an order for a production of a handmade last.

 

[johng70]

It would be difficult to justify bespoke shoes as a medical expense. It's definitely unethical. But, I have no idea how well the IRS audits expenses so I can't speak to the likelihood of you getting caught.

 

[breakaway01]

The issue is not so much the IRS but rather your FSA/HSA administrator -- they will absolutely need a letter of medical necessity (so you will need to find a similarly unethical physician or podiatrist to write one for you) and I think they will look quite closely at such an expense before approving it.

 

[kmcmichael]

I doubt it. About 25 years ago I had plantar fasciitis I had some inserts made and some custom work boots. It was about 800$. I paid for the whole thing. Diabetes may be different.
I now have some other foot problems. The doctor offered surgery, which I am terrified of. I have to tape toes together due to metatarsal bone problems. When wearing shoes I have to do it on both feet. I now buy overly large shoes that are pretty clunky. If I thought I could get assistance in the price of some fitted shoes, I would do it. I doubt the shoes would;d look very stylish.
Not to sound like a whiner because I am in great health. Other than that.

 

[Ebitdaddy]

After that try pushing for vicuna suits due to sensitive skin

 

[kmcmichael]

Na, I if I had sensitive skin I would just go to the nudist colony.