How to Use Your HSA or FSA to Pay for a Sauna in Arkansas
Maximize Your Wellness and Your Savings with a Letter of Medical Necessity
At ChillFire, we believe in making the healing power of heat accessible—and that includes helping you navigate smart ways to pay for your sauna. One of the best-kept secrets? You may be able to use Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to purchase your sauna, tax-free. We advise that you consult your tax professional to ensure you comply with all requirements in your region, and want to be clear that this page is intended to be informational only, and does not substitute for proper counsel to ensure compliance. Here’s an outline of how it works:
Can I Use HSA or FSA to Pay for a Sauna?
Yes—if you have a documented medical need.
To qualify your sauna purchase as an eligible expense, you’ll need a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a licensed healthcare provider. This letter essentially states that regular sauna use is part of a prescribed treatment for a specific medical condition.
What Is a Letter of Medical Necessity?
A Letter of Medical Necessity is a simple document written by your doctor, chiropractor, or other qualified provider. It should state:
Your diagnosed condition (e.g., chronic pain, arthritis, hypertension, anxiety, etc.)
That sauna use is a recommended or prescribed treatment
Frequency and duration (e.g., 3–5 times per week, 20 minutes per session)
Provider’s signature, credentials, and contact information
You do not need a specific template—most providers will know how to write one. If needed, we can supply a sample letter for your doctor to use.
Common Conditions That May Qualify
While your doctor must make the determination, some common qualifying conditions include:
Chronic pain or fibromyalgia
Arthritis or joint stiffness
High blood pressure or cardiovascular issues
Muscle recovery or sports-related injuries
Anxiety, PTSD, or depression
Detoxification and skin conditions
Autoimmune disorders
What to Do Once You Have the Letter
Buy the Sauna with Personal Funds:
Most HSA/FSA administrators don’t allow upfront purchases with the card directly. Instead, pay out of pocket and submit for reimbursement.Keep Your Documentation:
Save your invoice from ChillFire and the Letter of Medical Necessity. Submit both to your HSA/FSA provider.Get Reimbursed Tax-Free:
Once approved, you'll receive reimbursement for part or all of the sauna purchase depending on your available funds.
Recommended Arkansas Providers for LMN
Here are some wellness-forward providers who are familiar with holistic therapies like sauna use and may be open to evaluating your eligibility:
Northwest Arkansas:
Dr. Joshua McKinney, DO – Integrative Medicine of NWA
Specialty: Holistic family medicine, chronic pain
Location: Bentonville, ARDr. Sarah Troup, ND – Rooted Naturopathic
Specialty: Functional medicine and autoimmune care
Location: Fayetteville, ARDr. Lisa Pitman, DC – NWA Health Solutions
Specialty: Chiropractic and natural therapies
Location: Lowell, ARDr. Tyler Gaston, MD – University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS)
Specialty: Neurology and chronic pain (request consult via UAMS referral)
Central Arkansas:
Dr. John Vinson, DO – Arkansas Wellness and Pain Management
Location: Little Rock, ARDr. Sarah Searcy, MD – Functional and Integrative Family Medicine
Location: Conway, AR
Don’t see your doctor listed? No problem. Most primary care physicians or specialists can provide this letter if they understand your condition and the benefits of sauna use. We’re happy to provide clinical studies to help.
Need Help or Documentation?
If you'd like a sample LMN, research references, or help communicating with your doctor, just reach out. We’re happy to support you with any resources you need.
A sauna isn’t just a luxury—it can be a long-term investment in your health.
And thanks to HSA/FSA savings, it can be more affordable than you think.
Ready to get started? Reach out now.