Ever wondered if you can access your Health Equity funds without whipping out that special card? Good news! You absolutely can get reimbursed for eligible medical expenses after paying out-of-pocket.

I was in this exact situation last month when my dentist didn’t take my Health Equity card. No problem – I just paid with my regular credit card (hello, points!) and submitted for reimbursement later.

Let’s break down how this whole process works, why you might choose this option, and some pro tips to make it super smooth.

How to Get Your Money Back Without Using the Health Equity Card

Think of it like this: you’ve already set aside money in your Health Equity account. That money is yours. The card is just one way to access it, but not the only way.

Here’s the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Pay Like Normal

When you’re at the doctor, pharmacy, or anywhere else with eligible medical expenses:

• Pay with your regular credit card, debit card, cash, or check
• Make sure to get an itemized receipt (this is super important!)
• Keep that receipt somewhere safe (I take pictures with my phone)

Step 2: Submit Your Claim

Log into your Health Equity account (online or through the app) and:

1. Find the “Reimburse Me” or “Submit Claim” option
2. Enter the expense details
3. Upload your receipt or EOB (Explanation of Benefits)
4. Double-check that everything is correct
5. Hit submit!

Your receipt needs to show:

• Who received the service (patient name)
• When it happened (date of service)
• Who provided it (provider name)
• What service was provided
• How much it cost

Step 3: Choose How You Want Your Money

You can get your reimbursement two ways:

• Direct deposit (fastest option – usually 2-3 business days)
• Check mailed to your home (slower – typically 5-7 business days)

Pro tip: Set up direct deposit in your Health Equity profile before submitting claims. It’s way faster than waiting for a check!

Step 4: Get Paid!

Once approved, Health Equity will release your funds. The timing depends on your reimbursement method, but direct deposit is definitely quicker.

Why Would Anyone NOT Use Their Health Equity Card?

Good question! There are actually several solid reasons:

Some Places Don’t Take the Card

Not every provider accepts these specialized cards. My physical therapist, for example, only takes regular payment methods.

You Want Those Credit Card Points

I’m a points junkie. By paying with my rewards credit card first, I rack up points and still get reimbursed from my tax-advantaged account. Double win!

Better Record-Keeping

When you manually submit claims, you’re forced to keep better records. This can be super helpful come tax time or if you ever get audited.

Specialized Treatments Like Orthodontia

According to Health Equity’s guidelines for orthodontia, these treatments often require manual submission anyway. You’ll need to upload your orthodontia contract and can set up recurring reimbursements to match your payment schedule.

Important Things to Know

Documentation is Non-Negotiable

The IRS is very serious about proper documentation for health account spending. Always keep itemized receipts whether you use the card or not.

You Can Only Get Back What’s in Your Account

If you have $500 in your Health Equity account, that’s the maximum you can be reimbursed, even if your medical expenses are higher. For FSAs with annual election amounts, you might be able to access your full annual amount before it’s fully funded through payroll deductions, depending on your plan.

Set Up That Direct Deposit!

I can’t stress this enough – setting up direct deposit makes the whole process much smoother. Otherwise, you’re waiting for checks in the mail like it’s 1995.

Some Expenses Require Extra Verification

Certain items like vitamins or gym memberships might need a Letter of Medical Necessity from your doctor to qualify for reimbursement.

Here’s what you might be thinking: “Isn’t using the card easier?” Sometimes yes, sometimes no. I’ve found the flexibility of choosing when to use the card versus when to pay myself and get reimbursed later is incredibly valuable.

For example, when I had a $3,000 dental procedure, I paid with my travel rewards card, earned enough points for a free flight, and then got reimbursed from my HSA a week later. The dentist was happy, I got a trip to Vegas, and it was all paid with pre-tax dollars. Win-win-win!

The American Institute of CPAs recommends this approach for maximizing HSA benefits while maintaining good records.

Remember: Your Health Equity funds are YOUR money. The card is just one tool to access it. Having multiple ways to use your funds gives you more control and flexibility over your healthcare spending.

So next time your provider gives you a weird look when you pull out that Health Equity card, just smile and say, “No problem, I’ll pay normally and submit for reimbursement later.” You’ve got options!