Personal development classes cover the skills people pick up for themselves: a conversational language course, a public speaking group, a time management workshop, or a pottery or creative writing class that has nothing to do with their job title. The category belongs in an LSA because growth often happens outside work, and people learning something they chose tend to bring that energy into the rest of their week.
Classes employees commonly put their LSA toward
This category is broad by design, since personal growth looks different for everyone. Plans often include:
- Language classes, online or at a local school
- Public speaking groups and presentation skills courses
- Time management and personal productivity workshops
- Creative classes such as writing, photography or music lessons
- Online course platform subscriptions
- Communication and assertiveness workshops
- Stress management and mindfulness courses
For the wider list of categories employers tend to include, see our guide to LSA eligible expenses.
Where personal development overlaps with other benefits
- Courses required for an employee's current role are usually paid by the company directly.
- Degree tuition and for-credit university courses typically fall under tuition assistance instead.
- Self-help retreats that are mostly vacation may be excluded or handled under a retreat category.
- Therapy programs marketed as personal growth still belong with the health plan or EAP.
- Supplies for hobby classes, like instruments or cameras, may be excluded or capped.
Who takes personal development classes
Employees in quieter roles sometimes use the funds for public speaking practice before asking for a promotion. People with family abroad take language classes to talk more easily with relatives. Parents returning from leave look for time management courses as their schedules change. Others pick a creative class because they miss making things. What connects them is choosing something for themselves, which is why many plans file personal development under emotional wellbeing rather than career training. For related ideas, see our article on professional development stipends.
Keeping a personal development category broad but clear
Describe outcomes, not course types
A category defined as classes that build personal skills or support personal growth is easier to apply than a long list of approved subjects. It also leaves room for classes nobody thought to list.
Separate it from career training
If you also have a professional development or tuition benefit, explain which one to use. Employees shouldn't have to guess whether a certification belongs here.
Decide on materials
Some classes require books or supplies. State whether required materials count, and set a cap on equipment for hobby courses. Instruments and cameras are where costs climb fastest.
Frequently asked questions
Can an LSA cover personal development classes?
They're commonly included, and this tends to be one of the broader categories. Subjects and formats still vary, so read your employer's list before you enroll.
Do hobby classes like painting or guitar count as personal development?
Often, especially in plans that tie the category to emotional wellbeing. A few employers limit it to skill-based courses such as languages or communication. Supplies for the class may be capped separately.
Can I use LSA funds for a professional certification?
Some plans allow it, but many route certifications to a professional development or tuition benefit. If the certification is required for your job, your employer may pay for it directly.
Are online course subscriptions allowed?
They commonly are, as long as the subscription is for learning content. Annual plans may be covered up to your remaining balance for the plan year. Single courses bought one at a time are usually fine too.
Tax treatment depends on the plan and location; our guide explains how LSA reimbursements are taxed.
This content is general information, not medical, legal, tax, or financial advice. Employer plan terms determine eligibility, and requirements may vary by location.
