LSA for monitors

Remote work has fundamentally changed how employees set up their home offices, with computer monitors becoming one of the most requested workplace essentials. Forma understands that providing the right equipment support through flexible benefits helps companies attract and retain top talent while supporting employee productivity and well-being.

LSA for monitors: Supporting employee productivity with quality display equipment

Computer monitors represent a significant investment in employee comfort and performance. Whether upgrading from a laptop screen to a dual-monitor setup or replacing an aging display, the right monitor can reduce eye strain, improve workflow efficiency, and create a more professional work environment. An LSA for monitors allows employees to choose the display technology that best fits their specific role and workspace needs.

What is an LSA for monitors?

An LSA for monitors is an employer-funded benefit account that employees can use to purchase computer displays and related equipment for their workspace. This flexible benefit recognizes that different roles require different display setups - from graphic designers needing color-accurate monitors to data analysts benefiting from ultrawide screens for spreadsheet work.

Through a Lifestyle Spending Account, employees gain access to funds specifically designated for monitor purchases, allowing them to select equipment that matches their professional needs rather than settling for standard-issue displays. This approach gives workers the autonomy to create an optimal workspace while helping employers support productivity across diverse roles.

Can I get an LSA for monitors with Forma?

Yes, monitors are typically eligible expenses under most LSA programs, including those administered through Forma. Computer monitors fall under workplace equipment or home office setup categories, making them a natural fit for LSA funding.

With Forma's platform, employees can easily submit monitor purchases for reimbursement by uploading receipts through the user-friendly mobile app or web portal. The approval process is streamlined, allowing for quick reimbursement of eligible monitor expenses.

Companies working with Forma can customize their LSA parameters to include specific monitor types, set spending limits, or establish guidelines around display specifications. This flexibility ensures the benefit aligns with both budget considerations and employee needs while maintaining simple administration for HR teams.

Why use an LSA for monitors?

Reduced eye strain and improved comfort

Quality monitors with proper resolution and adjustable settings help employees avoid the eye fatigue common with smaller laptop screens or outdated displays. Features like blue light filtering and flicker-free technology contribute to better long-term eye health, particularly important for employees spending eight or more hours daily looking at screens.

Enhanced productivity and workflow

Dual or ultrawide monitor setups allow employees to multitask more effectively, keeping reference materials visible while working on primary tasks. This expanded screen real estate can significantly reduce the time spent switching between applications and windows, leading to measurable productivity gains.

Professional appearance for video calls

High-quality monitors often include better built-in cameras and positioning options, helping employees present professionally during virtual meetings. This becomes particularly valuable for client-facing roles where video call quality directly impacts business relationships.

Customization for specific job functions

Different roles benefit from different monitor specifications. Developers might prefer ultrawide screens for coding, while graphic designers need color-accurate displays. An LSA allows employees to select monitors that truly support their specific work requirements.

Long-term cost effectiveness

Quality monitors typically last several years, making them a sound investment in employee workspace setup. By supporting monitor purchases through an LSA, companies help employees avoid the ongoing costs and limitations of working on inadequate displays.

How does an LSA for monitors work?

Step 1: Employer sets up the LSA program

Companies establish their LSA parameters, including annual funding amounts and eligible expense categories. Monitors are typically included under home office or workplace equipment categories, with employers able to set specific guidelines around monitor types or spending limits.

Step 2: Employee researches and purchases monitor

Employees shop for monitors that meet their workspace needs and fall within the LSA guidelines. They can purchase from any retailer, giving them flexibility to find the best deals or specific models that suit their requirements.

Step 3: Submit expense for reimbursement

After purchase, employees upload their receipt through Forma's platform along with any required documentation. The system automatically checks the expense against LSA parameters for quick processing.

Step 4: Receive reimbursement

Once approved, reimbursement is processed directly to the employee's designated account. Forma's platform provides real-time updates on submission status and remaining LSA balance.

Step 5: Track and manage ongoing benefits

Employees can monitor their LSA usage throughout the year, planning for additional workspace improvements or saving funds for larger purchases like premium monitor upgrades.

What are the benefits of an LSA for monitors?

Improved employee satisfaction and retention

Providing monitor support through an LSA demonstrates that employers care about workspace quality and employee comfort. This attention to workplace setup details can significantly impact job satisfaction, particularly among remote and hybrid workers who spend considerable time at their home offices.

Competitive advantage in talent acquisition

Health monitoring devices and workplace equipment support through LSAs help companies stand out in competitive job markets. Candidates increasingly evaluate potential employers based on their commitment to employee well-being and workspace support.

Reduced IT support burden

When employees can select monitors that work well with their existing equipment and preferences, IT support requests related to display issues often decrease. Employees who choose their own monitors are more likely to properly maintain and troubleshoot their equipment.

Tax advantages for both parties

LSA contributions are typically tax-deductible for employers while providing tax-free benefits to employees. This creates a win-win situation where companies can offer valuable benefits at a reduced net cost.

Flexible benefit utilization

Unlike rigid equipment allowances, LSAs allow employees to allocate funds based on their actual needs. An employee might choose one premium monitor over two basic displays, or combine monitor purchases with other eligible expenses throughout the year.

Supporting your team with monitor LSAs

Monitor support through LSAs represents a practical investment in employee productivity and satisfaction. By allowing workers to choose displays that truly meet their professional needs, companies can improve workplace quality while maintaining benefit flexibility.

The connection between proper workspace equipment and employee performance is clear - quality monitors reduce eye strain, support better workflow organization, and contribute to overall job satisfaction. When employees feel supported in creating optimal work environments, both individual and organizational performance benefits.

Frequently asked questions about LSA for monitors

What types of monitors are typically covered under an LSA?

Most standard computer monitors qualify for LSA reimbursement, including LED, OLED, and LCD displays. This covers everything from basic 24-inch monitors to premium ultrawide and 4K displays. Gaming monitors with high refresh rates are also typically eligible, as are specialized monitors for graphic design work. However, TVs used primarily for entertainment rather than work purposes may not qualify, so it's important to check your specific LSA guidelines.

Are monitor accessories like stands and cables covered?

Yes, monitor accessories that are necessary for proper setup and functionality are typically eligible LSA expenses. This includes monitor arms, adjustable stands, HDMI cables, DisplayPort cables, and USB-C adapters. Webcams and speakers that integrate with monitor setups are also commonly covered. The key is that accessories should support workplace productivity rather than general entertainment use.

Can I use my LSA for multiple monitors or monitor upgrades?

Absolutely. LSA funds can be used for multiple monitor purchases throughout the year, subject to your annual allocation limits. Many employees use their LSA to build dual or triple monitor setups over time, or to upgrade from basic displays to higher-quality options as their needs change. You can also replace monitors that break or become outdated, making LSAs a flexible solution for ongoing workspace maintenance.

How do I prove a monitor purchase is for work purposes?

Most LSA programs require a receipt showing the monitor purchase along with a brief explanation of how the equipment supports work activities. Some employers may request additional documentation for expensive monitors, but generally, computer monitors are automatically considered work-related equipment. Keep receipts that clearly show the monitor model and purchase date, and be prepared to explain how the monitor improves your work setup if asked.

What happens if my monitor costs more than my remaining LSA balance?

If a monitor costs more than your remaining LSA funds, you can typically pay the difference out of pocket and receive reimbursement for the LSA portion. For example, if you have $300 remaining in your LSA and want to purchase a $500 monitor, you would pay $500 upfront and receive $300 back through the LSA program. Some employees strategically save LSA funds throughout the year for larger monitor purchases, while others combine monitor purchases with other workspace improvements to maximize their benefit usage.