What does wellness really mean? What is covered by the wellness allowance, which activities are approved – and which are not? There are plenty of ways to use your wellness allowance, but there are also important rules to keep in mind. We’re here to clarify the most common questions!
There is no official, complete list of all activities eligible for the wellness allowance. Instead, it is based on laws and regulations. Generally, wellness covers simpler physical activities and health treatments at a reasonable cost. Below, we have listed some approved services as well as examples of activities that are not covered.
This includes everything from gym and personal training to boxing, swimming, dancing, and pilates. Even activities with lighter exercise elements, such as bowling, agility, or go-karting, may be eligible.
You can use your wellness allowance for health treatments that relieve stress, stiffness, or soreness, such as various types of massages. Preventative massage treatments performed by a chiropractor, physiotherapist, or naprapath are also approved. However, treatments intended for injury rehabilitation are not covered.
Most sports that involve physical activity are approved.
Fees for races such as running, biking, or skiing are eligible.
Subscriptions for fitness and health-related apps and online services are covered.
The wellness allowance can be used to cover the cost of an annual pass, punch card or similar, provided it is clearly stated which exercise or wellness activity applies. The card must be issued by the merchant offering the activity and must be personal. It is not permitted to use the wellness allowance to purchase gift cards that can later be used for various activities, as a gift card is considered a means of payment and not an approved wellness activity.
According to the Swedish Tax Agency, the following rules apply:
Additionally, some activities can fall into a gray area or may commonly be mistaken as wellness. Below, we clarify what is not eligible for the wellness allowance.
You can only use the wellness allowance for the actual activity, not for membership fees or licenses.
Treatments from physiotherapists, naprapaths, and chiropractors are classified as healthcare and are therefore not covered by the wellness allowance. However, a light massage performed by a chiropractor may be eligible.
A visit to a spa or spa entry fee is not covered. However, if a wellness service such as massage, yoga, or a workout session is included in the spa visit, you can use your wellness allowance for that specific service.
Beauty treatments are not included in the wellness benefit. This means treatments primarily for cosmetic purposes, such as pedicures, manicures, Botox, hair removal, laser treatments, brow and lash lifts, and various facial treatments.
Medical treatments, preventive healthcare, and medical services are not eligible for the wellness allowance. This includes treatments aimed at preventing, diagnosing, or treating illnesses or injuries.
The Swedish Tax Agency classifies tanning bed use as a beauty treatment, meaning it is not covered under the wellness allowance.
You cannot use the wellness allowance to purchase or rent equipment. For example, if you play tennis, the activity itself is covered, but if you rent a tennis racket, that cost is not eligible. However, if the equipment is included in the activity price, you can pay for the service using your wellness balance.
Remember that the wellness allowance can only be used for services that are officially approved as wellness. It is important to follow the Swedish Tax Agency's regulations, as you are personally responsible for ensuring compliance when using the benefit. If you are unsure or have any questions, feel free to contact us at Epassi or visit the Swedish Tax Agency's website for more details.