A letter of medical necessity (LMN) is a letter written by your doctor that verifies the services or items you are purchasing are for the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or medical condition. This letter is required by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for certain eligible expenses. Review the list of eligible expenses to see if you need an LMN for a particular type of expense.
What information should be included?
1. Patient’s name
2. A specific diagnosis/treatment needed
The recommended treatment must be described by your licensed healthcare provider.
For example, a recommended exercise program through a gym membership for the next six months to alleviate the patient's hypertension.
3. Duration of the treatment
A provider may recommend a specific duration of treatment
If this is not available, we consider the LMN valid one year from the date it is written.
If the treatment extends beyond the stated time period, the member must submit a new LMN covering the new time period.
A LMN cannot exceed a 12-month period.
4. Must be signed by a licensed practitioner
5. An acceptable LMN form
HealthEquity LMN form: Download and complete the Letter of Medical Necessity form and submit the form and any needed documentation in your Member Support Portal.
Provider's official letterhead
A doctor's prescription/LMN written on a prescription pad
Discharge papers
Note: the date of purchase or date of service must be AFTER the LMN has been received and approved.