How to use your insurance benefits before they expire

Every December, millions of people leave money on the table without realizing it—unused insurance benefits they’ve already paid for. Most plans reset on January 1, which means your deductible, FSA/HSA funds, and annual visit limits start over.

There’s still time to make the most of what you’ve got left—especially when it comes to your reproductive and sexual health. If you’ve been meaning to renew your birth control prescription, stock up on emergency contraception with Hey Jane, or check a few other things off your self-care list, now’s the perfect time to do it. Explore insurance plans accepted for care with Hey Jane, or keep reading to learn more about how you can make the most of your benefits before they reset.

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Ways to use your insurance, FSA, or HSA dollars before they expire

If you’re not sure where to begin, here are some practical ways to use your remaining benefits.

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1. Birth control refills or new prescriptions

If you’re due for a refill—or thinking about switching methods—this is the perfect time. Hey Jane offers quick, confidential birth control prescriptions from the comfort of home. Your insurance may cover the visit, or you can use FSA/HSA funds for the medication itself. To consult with a provider about 100+ options, start intake here.

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2. Emergency contraception 

Even if you don’t need it now, having emergency contraception at home is always helpful. With Hey Jane, you can stock up on Plan B or Ella before your benefits reset. Depending on your insurance, it may be fully or partially covered.

3. Pregnancy and ovulation tests

Whether you’re tracking your cycle or planning ahead, these tests are eligible for FSA and HSA spending. Stock up now so you’re ready when you need them—no last-minute drugstore runs required.

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4. Period products

Pads, tampons, menstrual cups, liners, and other period supplies all qualify for FSA and HSA use. End the year fully stocked.

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5. Condoms and lube

Safer sex supplies are self-care, too—and yes, they’re eligible for FSA/HSA spending. You can buy them online through FSA stores or directly from retailers that accept those payment cards.

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6. Pain relief and comfort items

Heating pads and over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are all eligible. Perfect for when your period (or holiday stress) hits hard.

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7. At-home UTI or STI test kits

At-home testing makes it easy to manage your health privately and on your own schedule. These kits usually qualify for FSA/HSA spending and can help you stay proactive.

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What types of insurance benefits can I use?

Here’s a breakdown of the different insurance benefits:

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Insurance coverage

If you’ve already met your deductible or out-of-pocket maximum this year, take advantage of it while you can. Many health plans cover preventive visits, prescriptions, and telehealth services—often with little to no additional cost to you. 

That could include birth control refills, STI testing, or even an online visit through Hey Jane depending on your plan.

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HSA (Health Savings Account)

HSAs are flexible: the money rolls over year to year, and you can use it anytime for qualified medical expenses. This includes prescriptions, contraception, period products, and even telehealth visits. You can pay with your HSA card or request reimbursement later.

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FSA (Flexible Spending Account)

FSAs work differently—most expire at the end of the year unless your employer offers a short grace period. You can use FSA dollars for many similar items: birth control, emergency contraception, pregnancy and ovulation tests, condoms, and pain-relief products. Some online retailers even offer FSA-friendly stores to make shopping easier.

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Why virtual care makes end-of-year care easier

Telehealth can help you use your benefits quickly and without the stress of in-person visits.

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Skip waiting rooms 

Late December is one of the busiest times for medical appointments. With Hey Jane, you can connect with a licensed provider from home—often in one business day.

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Quick turnaround before benefits reset

If you’re prescribed treatment, your medications can be picked up at your pharmacy of choice or, in some cases, shipped straight to your door. That means you can use your benefits and receive what you need before December 31.

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Flexible, discreet, and low-stress

Virtual care helps you avoid crowded offices, travel time, and pharmacy lines. It’s perfect if you’re juggling end-of-year work, family gatherings, or travel plans.