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December 2008
FSAFEDS Announces Changes to Gym Membership Reimbursements
We will process gym membership claims differently beginning January 1, 2009. As you may know, gym memberships may be eligible expenses if prescribed by a physician and substantiated by his/her statement that treatment is necessary to alleviate a medical condition.
As a result of a recent clarification provided by the IRS, we must change how we currently process gym membership fees to remain compliant. IRS regulations stipulate that we cannot reimburse participants for services to be provided in the future, even if the provider requires payment in advance for the entire period.
What does this mean for you?
This means that FSAFEDS cannot reimburse you for gym membership fees in full even if you paid for an entire period upfront. If you submit a Letter of Medical Necessity for a gym membership and it is approved, you will need to submit your expenses AFTER the dates of service have passed. If you submit a claim that includes dates of service that have not yet occurred, we will pro-rate your claim. The portion that includes dates that have passed will be paid and the remaining portion will be denied. You would have to re-submit the denied portion(s) after those dates of service.
For example: If you submit a claim on February 1 for $500 to pay for membership from January 1 to May 31, we will pay $100 (January’s service has taken place already) and deny $400 (February, March, April and May have not yet occurred).
How should I submit my gym membership claims if I pay for the full amount upfront?
For a gym membership to even be considered for reimbursement, you must first have an approved Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) on file for a medical condition that requires exercise at a gym. If the LMN is approved, you have two options for submitting these types of claims. Please note that the IRS regulations stipulate that we cannot reimburse expenses that will be incurred in the future, even if the provider requires payment in advance for the entire period. This includes expenses such as gym memberships:
Here are your options:
- Submit expenses for a full month after that month has ended. Let’s say you are billed monthly for gym membership, and paid for January 1 – January 31. On February 1, you would submit a claim form for January only, and include the receipt for January’s membership that details the dates of service, provider name and cost.
- Submit the expense for a specific time period. Let’s say you were asked to pay a fee upfront for a specified time period. For instance, in April you were asked to pay a $270 fee to cover gym membership for April through December. On May 1, you could submit a claim for $270 but we would pay a pro-rated amount of $30 ($270 divided by 9 months). On June 1, you could submit another claim and we would pay another $30. You could submit a claim each month thereafter with the appropriate documentation until you were reimbursed for the entire expense.
In summary, beginning January 1, 2009, if you have an approved Letter of Medical Necessity for a gym membership, you will only be reimbursed for eligible expenses AFTER the dates of service have passed. If a claim is submitted that includes future dates of service, the portion of the claim for dates of service that have not yet occurred will be denied.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we implement IRS requirements. If you have any questions, please contact us at FSAFEDS@shps.com or toll-free at 1-877-FSAFEDS (372-3337), TTY: 1-800-952-0450, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., Eastern Time.
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December 2008
FSAFEDS Announces New Mileage Rate for 2009!
The IRS changed the allowable standard mileage rate when using a car or motorcycle to obtain medical care. Effective January 1, 2009, if you submit a claim for travel to and/or from health care providers, hospitals, pharmacies and other places that you receive eligible medical care during the 2009 calendar year, you will be reimbursed 24 cents per mile.
If you submit claims during the grace period (January 1 to March 15, 2008) for travel to and/or from health care providers for eligible medical care received during 2008, you will be reimbursed at the 2008 rates. Please note, there were two rates during 2008.
- For January 1 through June 30, 2008, the standard mileage rate was 19 cents per mile.
- For July 1 through December 31, 2008, the standard mileage rate was increased to 27 cents per mile.
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November 2008
FSAFEDS Announces Upcoming Changes Regarding Dependent Care Reimbursements
Dependent care claims will be processed differently beginning January 1,
2009.
As you know, IRS regulations stipulate that we cannot reimburse participants for care to be provided in the future, even if the provider requires payment in
advance for the entire period. Currently, we deny claims with future dates of service and reprocess them once you contact us after the dates of service have
passed to advise that the service was rendered.
We cannot continue to process claims this way. The IRS has clarified that any type of “self-certification”, including a participant verifying service has been
rendered, is not an eligible form of substantiation for FSA claims.
What does this mean for you?
This means that FSAFEDS can no longer accept your confirmation that the services were rendered. You will need to submit your expenses only after the
dates of service have passed. If you submit them before the dates of service have passed, we will deny your claim and you will need to resubmit.
How should I submit my claims to avoid a denial?
You have a couple of options to consider:
- Submit expenses for the full month after the month has ended. Let’s say you incurred eligible day care expenses for January 1 – January 31. On February 1, you would submit
your eligible expenses with the provider’s signature on the claim form, or include receipts that include the dates of service, provider name and cost.
- Submit the expenses weekly. Let’s again say you will incur eligible day care expenses for January 1 - January 31. On Monday,
January 8, you would submit your previous week’s expenses (January 1 to January 5) with the provider’s signature or documentation as outlined above. You would continue to do this each week or on a schedule which works best for
you.
You may want to consider having your day care (or elder care) provider sign the affidavit where indicated on the FSAFEDS claim form each time you submit a claim form. Then you do not have to submit receipts with your claim form. This
simple step can save you valuable time.
In summary, beginning January 1, 2009, you must submit eligible DCFSA expenses only AFTER the dates of service have passed.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions, please contact us at FSAFEDS@shps.com or toll-free at 1-877-FSAFEDS (372-3337), TTY: 1-800-952-0450, Monday through
Friday, 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., Eastern Time.
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October 2008
We Are Pleased To Announce The New FSAFEDS Message Center!
The Message Center contains important information which may relate to the program at large and/or specifically to your account. The messages will include:
- Copies of previously sent emails with important information, such as newly eligible expenses, new enhancements to improve the Program, etc.
- Copies of your account statements, which provide important balance and claims deadline information
- Announcements about changes in IRS regulations that determine how your benefits are administered
Access is simple! Just visit www.FSAFEDS.com and log in to “My Account Summary.” Then, select “Message Center” from the left-hand menu. The messages will be maintained for 18 months so you’ll have any pertinent information regarding your account for the full Benefit Period.
We hope you enjoy this new feature.
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October 2008
Attention Benefits Officers! FSAFEDS Open Season Materials Now
Available!
The Federal Benefits Open Season for the 2009 Benefit Period runs from Monday, November
10th to Monday, December 8th.
FSAFEDS Open Season materials are now available!
You may download PDF versions under
FSAFEDS Material Requests. All items will print one-sided on 8-1/2 x 11
paper. The materials include:
- Program Overview Brochure
- Open Season Inserts (handouts or stuffers in pay statements)
- Open Season Poster
- New Hire Flyer (2009)
A PowerPoint presentation providing an overview of the FSAFEDS Program and benefits
will also be available soon, so be sure to check back later! Remember, you can order
hard-copy materials designed for the Federal Benefits Open Season to help promote
the FSAFEDS program within your agency. Those items include:
- Program overview brochures which describe FSAFEDS and include details on eligible
expenses (minimum order of 100 brochures)
- Promotional posters, 10”x13” (The minimum order is 5 sets, for 15 total posters)
- Program overview videos in VHS or DVD closed-captioned formats.
All materials are free of charge to you!!
Please send your request for materials to FSAFEDS-HR@shps.com and be sure to include
how many you need, the mailing address(s) where they should be shipped, and a name,
phone number and email address of a point of contact. Receipt of your order will
be confirmed via email.
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September 2008
FSAFEDS Suspends Paperless Reimbursement with Mail Handlers
Mail Handlers Benefit Plan (MHBP) is implementing a new claims processing system
for medical and prescription drug claims that was not designed to be compatible
with the FSAFEDS Paperless Reimbursement (PR) Program.
What does this mean for MHBP paperless reimbursement participants?
This means that FSAFEDS will not be able to automatically process your MHBP claims.
You will need to manually submit your claims to FSAFEDS for reimbursement.
PLEASE NOTE: the timing for your medical and prescription claims is different --
- Medical services processed for you by MHBP from August 31, 2008 forward will NOT
be sent to FSAFEDS for processing.
- Prescription drug services that will be processed for you by MHBP starting September
14, 2008 forward will NOT be sent to FSAFEDS.
How do I manually submit claims to FSAFEDS?
You must fill out a health care claim form and send it to FSAFEDS along with a copy
of your Explanation of Benefits from MHBP. We will process and reimburse your claim
in 5 – 7 business days from the time we receive it, as long as it contains the information
necessary to process.
Where do I obtain a claim form? Simply click on “Health
Care Claim Form” to open the form and then follow the instructions.
Will MHBP participate in Paperless Reimbursement at some later time? Yes.
We are already working with MHBP and hope to make the PR Program available to you
in January 2009, if not sooner. Be sure to elect paperless reimbursement with MHBP
during Open Season when you re-enroll in FSAFEDS for the 2009 Benefit Period.
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June 2008
IRS Announces Increased Mileage Rate for 2008!
Beginning July 1, 2008, reimbursement for mileage expenses incurred as a result
of medical care will reimbursed at $0.27 per mile. Eligible mileage incurred prior
to July 1, 2008 will be reimbursed at $0.19 per mile.
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June 2008
FSAFEDS is pleased to announce the implementation of two new claim
forms!
Why the change? The new forms – one for health care claims and a separate one for
dependent care claims – will help us to process your claims more efficiently.
You can view the new forms by clicking on the below links. You can also access the
new claim forms by going to www.FSAFEDS.com
and clicking on “Claim Forms”.
Health Care Claim Form
Dependent Care Claim Form
You can begin using the new claim forms today. We’ll continue to accept your claims
submitted on the “old” claim form through Sunday August 17, 2008. If you have a
saved version of the “old” claim form – don’t forget to replace it with the new
forms.
YOU MUST SUBMIT YOUR CLAIMS USING THE NEW FORMS ON MONDAY AUGUST 18, 2008. CLAIMS
SUBMITTED ON THE “OLD” FORM FROM MONDAY AUGUST 18, 2008 FORWARD WILL NOT BE PROCESSED.
If you have questions, please contact an FSAFEDS Benefits Counselor at 1-877-FSAFEDS
(372-3337), TTY: 1-800-952-0450, 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., Eastern Time, or via
email at FSAFEDS@shps.com.
Thank you for helping us to make FSAFEDS the best it can be!
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March 2008
FSAFEDS Announces Hand Sanitizer and Medicated Lip Products Are
Now Eligible!
Effective Immediately - Hand Sanitizer and Medicated Lip Products are eligible for
reimbursement!
You may be surprised to know that hand sanitizer products, such as Purell, are now
eligible for reimbursement from your Health Care Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA).
Medicated Lip Products, such as Blistex Medicated Lip Ointment, are also now eligible
for reimbursement.
Please take a moment to look at the OTC Quick Reference
Guide for a list of other brands.
Remember, you need to submit a detailed receipt (showing the product name). If your
receipt does not show the product name, you must also include a copy
of the product label or container cover.
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December 2007
FSAFEDS Announces New Mileage Rate for 2008!
The IRS changed the allowable standard mileage rate when using a car or motorcycle
to obtain medical care. Effective January 1, 2008, if you submit a claim for travel
to and/or from health care providers, hospitals, pharmacies and other places that
you receive eligible medical care during the 2008 calendar year, you will be reimbursed
19 cents per mile. Please note this is a decrease from the 20 cents per mile rate
for 2007.
If you submit claims during the grace period (January 1 to March 15, 2008) for travel
to and/or from health care providers for eligible medical care received during 2007,
you will be reimbursed at the 2007 rate. And for travel in 2008, reimbursement will
be at the 2008 rate.
For more information on transportation expenses, refer to
"Transportation" on the Eligible Expenses
Juke Box.
Remember to consider your mileage expenses when deciding your 2008 election!
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November 2007
FSAFEDS Expands Eligibility of Acne Treatment Products!
Great News – Effective Immediately!
Do you have acne? Do any of your children? Your spouse? You’ll be happy to know
that over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatment products, such as the Proactiv Solution
3-Step System and Murad Acne Complex Kit are now eligible for reimbursement from
your Health Care Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA) without a letter of medical necessity
from your physician.
Please take a moment to look at the OTC Quick Reference
Guide for a comprehensive list of other eligible acne treatment products.
Keep in mind that you need to submit a detailed receipt (showing the product name)
when filing your claim for reimbursement. Submit a copy of the product label or
container cover with your claim if your receipt does not list the product
name.
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August 2007
IMPORTANT SECURITY ENHANCEMENT: Your Social Security Number Can
No Longer Be Used As Your UserID.
We have updated our systems to incorporate a higher level of security to help us
better safeguard your personal information. Effective August 16, 2007, FSAFEDS participants
may no longer use their Social Security Number as their UserID or to access their
account.
Many participants already use an alternate UserID. We notified current participants
who were impacted by this change via email or hard copy letter if you did not have
an email on file. Please call us if you still have a UserID that consists of your
Social Security Number and we will help you change it.
We have added a "I Can’t Remember My UserID" link to the My Account Summary login
page to help you determine your UserID if you have forgotten it.
Your current password is not impacted by this security update. Please note that
you may be required to change your password if it is over 90 days old.
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Email Blasts to Participants
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January 2008
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Welcome to FSAFEDS!
We are very pleased that you decided to participate in FSAFEDS and look forward
to serving you throughout the 2008 Benefit Period. A special Welcome Back to those
of you who were also with us last year!
Below is a quick list of important information and dates that you should be aware
of. Please visit www.fsafeds.com at any time
to learn more about FSAFEDS.
1. Custom Service:
Email: FSAFEDS@shps.com
Toll-free: 1-877-FSAFEDS (372-3337), TTY: 1-800-952-0450
FSAFEDS Benefits Counselors are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 am until 9:00
pm, Eastern Time.
2. Claim Form:
The claim form is available at www.fsafeds.com
under Quick Links on the home page or at
https://www.fsafeds.com/forms/opmclmform.pdf. Please take a moment to read
over our Quick Reference Guide (https://www.fsafeds.com/forms/cleanclaimqrg.pdf)
on how to submit a "clean" claim.
3. Time to Incur Claims:
You have from January 1, 2008 through March 15, 2009 (the 2008 Benefit Period) to
incur eligible expenses toward your 2008 health and/or dependent care account.
4. Claims Deadline:
You must submit claims for eligible expenses incurred during the 2008 Benefit Period
on or before April 30, 2009.
5. My Account Summary (MAS):
You can access MAS at
https://www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/login/participantlogin.asp
My Account Summary provides information on claims that have been proceeded. You
can check on the status of your claims, update your bank account information (for
electronic funds transfer), email address or home address, or email FSAFEDS with
any questions you may have.
5. Paperless Reimbursement Program (PR):
You can read information on PR at
https://www.fsafeds.com/forms/paperlessreimb.pdf
If you are participating in the Paperless Reimbursement (PR) program for 2008, there
are a few things to keep in mind.
- Do NOT submit a manual claim for medical services that will be processed through
PR. Doing so will result in a denial of the paper claim and increase administrative
expenses for the program.
- If you did not enroll in PR during Open Season, you may enroll any time by logging
in to My Account Summary (https://www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/login/participantlogin.asp),
if your FEHB plan participates. Please note that not all FEHB plans participate
in PR. To find out if your plan participates visit
www.fsafeds.com/forms/paperlessreimb.pdf
We hope you find the FSAFEDS Program to be beneficial to you and your family. Remember
to visit www.FSAFEDS.com to check the status
of your account or to find answers to questions regarding the program. If you are
unable to find an answer, give us a call or email us. We're here to help make your
FSAFEDS experience a pleasant one!
Welcome Aboard!
FSAFEDS
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January 2007
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Welcome to FSAFEDS!
We are so excited that you decided to participate in FSAFEDS and look forward to
serving you throughout the 2007 Benefit Period. A special Welcome Back to those
of you who were also with us last year!
Below is a quick list of important information and dates that you should be aware
of. Please visit www.fsafeds.com at any time
to learn more about FSAFEDS.
1. Custom Service:
Toll-free: 1-877-FSAFEDS (372-3337), TTY: 1-800-952-0450
Email: FSAFEDS@shps.com
FSAFEDS Benefits Counselors are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 am until 9:00
pm, Eastern Time.
2. Claim Submission:
The newly updated claim form is available at www.fsafeds.com
under Quick Links on the home page or you can click on this link (https://www.fsafeds.com/forms/opmclmform.pdf)
for a direct connection. Please take a moment to read over our Quick Reference Guide
(https://www.fsafeds.com/forms/cleanclaimqrg.pdf)
on how to submit a "clean" claim. Please note that you must use this new version
of the claim form. If you've saved a claim form from last year, please be sure to
switch to the new form.
3. Benefit Period:
You have from January 1, 2007 through March 15, 2008 to incur eligible expenses
toward your 2007 health and/or dependent care account.
4. My Account Summary (https://www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/login/participantlogin.asp)
My Account Summary provides up-to-date claims status information at your fingertips!
It's available 24/7 -- whenever it's convenient for you. You can check on the status
of your claims, update your EFT, email or address information, or email FSAFEDS
with any questions you may have.
5. Paperless Reimbursement Program (https://www.fsafeds.com/forms/paperlessreimb.pdf)
If you are participating in the Paperless Reimbursement (PR) program for 2007, there
are a few things to keep in mind.
- Do NOT submit a manual claim for medical services that will be processed through
PR. Doing so will result in a denial of the paper claim.
- If you did not enroll in PR during Open Season, you may enroll any time by logging
in to My Account Summary (https://www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/login/participantlogin.asp).
Please note that not all FEHB plans participate in PR.
We hope you find the FSAFEDS Program to be beneficial to you and your family. Remember
to visit www.FSAFEDS.com to check the status
of your account or to find answers to questions regarding the program. If you are
unable to find an answer, give us a call or email us. We're here to help make your
FSAFEDS experience a pleasant one!
Welcome Aboard!
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January 2007
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FEDVIP Double Reimbursement
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December 2006
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December 2006
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New Identifier for FSAFEDS Reimbursement
Dear FSAFEDS Participant,
Currently, when you receive a reimbursement from FSAFEDS via Electronic Funds Transfer
(EFT), it is identified as "SHPS FSA PMT" on your banking statement. Within the
next two weeks, this will be changed to read "SPENDING ACCT REIMB". While this change
is minimal and will have no affect on your account or reimbursements, we wanted
to notify you of the change so you were aware of the change and that it is, in fact,
your FSAFEDS reimbursement.
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July 2005
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FSAFEDS Announces Enhancements to Program
Dear FSAFEDS Participant:
FSAFEDS is pleased to announce several enhancements that promise to benefit all
participants - - that means you!
1) Grace period implemented for incurring eligible expenses!
You now have until March 15 of the following year to incur eligible expenses for
the current Benefit Period. While this does not eliminate the use-it-or-lose-it
rule completely, you now have a great advantage to avoid forfeiting unused funds.
If you have a balance remaining in your Health and/or Dependent Care FSA account
as of December 31, you can use those funds for eligible expenses incurred from January
1 through March 15 of the following year. This is effective immediately, so for
the 2005 Benefit Period, you have until March 15, 2006 to incur eligible expenses.
And, if your 2005 balance is not sufficient to reimburse you in full for expenses
incurred through March 15, 2006, the unpaid balance will be paid out of your 2006
account if you re-enrolled during Open Season. If you do not re-enroll, you cannot
be reimbursed in full for those expenses.
2) Deadline extended for submitting eligible expenses to FSAFEDS!
The deadline for submitting claims for eligible expenses has been pushed back to
accommodate the grace period change. You now have until May 31 following the end
of the Benefit Period to submit claims for eligible expenses you incurred through
March 15.
3) Health Care FSA maximum increased for 2006!
The Health Care FSA maximum contribution for 2006 will be $5,000 - - that's a $1,000
increase in the pre-tax amount. This change is effective for the 2006 Benefit Period
and does not apply to your current 2005 account. Remember, to take advantage of
this new maximum, you must re-enroll for the 2006 Benefit Period.
The Health Care FSA maximum contribution for 2006 will be $5,000 - - that's a $1,000
increase in the pre-tax amount. This change is effective for the 2006 Benefit Period
and does not apply to your current 2005 account. Remember, to take advantage of
this new maximum, you must re-enroll for the 2006 Benefit Period.
You are receiving this update because you are a current FSAFEDS participant. Be
sure to spread the word to your colleagues about the exciting changes occurring
at FSAFEDS so they can enroll for the 2006 Benefit Period this fall and take advantage
of the new benefits!
And, remember you must re-enroll each year to continue participating in FSAFEDS.
Don't miss out!
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June 2005
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We Are Pleased to Announce the Implementation of a New Claims Imaging System!
Dear FSAFEDS Participant:
We are pleased to announce the implementation of a new claims imaging system! Your
incoming claims are routed from the fax directly to our imaging system for processing
and payment. Our new system also processes other documentation such as Qualifying
Life Events and EFT enrollment forms, etc. The new system promises improved service
delivery, offers claim receipt confirmations for all claims, including those from
participants who use an Alternate ID, and much more!
But, as you've probably experienced with other new things, it sometimes takes awhile
to work out the kinks. This brand new system we're so excited about did experience
a short-lived problem already. We may have lost some faxes during the period of
June 6 to June 10.
Did you receive an email from us confirming our receipt of claims that you faxed
during that period? If yes, nothing more is required. If no, has your claim(s) been
paid yet? If it has, nothing more is required. If you don't receive an email confirmation
by end of day Wednesday, please fax your claim(s) to us again at 1-866-643-2245
(toll-free). We apologize for this glitch and the frustration that it may have caused.
Our toll-free fax number, 1-866-643-2245 has not changed. However, our direct dial
fax number for overseas participants and those unable to use a toll-free number
has changed to 1-502-267-2233.
Please note - our mailing address for claims and other correspondence has changed,
effective immediately. Our new address is:
FSAFEDS Program
PO Box 36880
Louisville, KY 40232
We are confident that as we move forward, our new imaging system will improve claims
processing and increase your satisfaction.
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FSAFEDS What's New Postings
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January 2007
IMPORTANT INFORMATION for FSAFEDS participants enrolled in FEDVIP
If you are an FSAFEDS participant who has coverage under the new Federal Employees
Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) you need to read one of the following
messages to learn about changes in the processing of your eligible dental and/or
vision claims. Please click on the link that applies to you:
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December 2006
New Identifier for FSAFEDS Reimbursements on Your Bank Statement
Currently, when you receive a reimbursement from FSAFEDS via Electronic Funds Transfer
(EFT), it is identified as "SHPS FSA PMT" on your banking statement. Within the
next two weeks, this will be changed to read "SPENDING ACCT REIMB". The identifier
description is the only change being made - this change will not impact your account
or you reimbursement. So don't forget, when you see "SPENDING ACCT REIMB" that's
your FSAFEDS reimbursement.
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December 2006
The Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006
On December 20, 2006, President Bush signed the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of
2006. The Act allows additional opportunities for employees interested in a high
deductible health plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA). Please visit
http://www.opm.gov/hsa/2006TaxReliefAct.asp
for more information related to high deductible health plans and HSA's.
The new act allows Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program enrollees who
are already enrolled (or will enroll) in a HDHP for 2007 and are eligible for an
HSA to make the following FSAFEDS changes:
- FEHB Program enrollees who are enrolled in a 2006 Health Care FSA (HCFSA) and choose
HDHP coverage for 2007 may make a one-time balance transfer from their Health Care
FSA to their HSA. This can be done to use up remaining 2006 HCFSA funds, (including
funds that would otherwise be available during the 2-1/2 month grace period for
the 2006 Benefit Period - January 1, 2007 through March 15, 2007), which would otherwise
make an individual ineligible for HSA coverage. The maximum amount that can be transferred
is the balance in your HCFSA on September 21, 2006 or the date of transfer, whichever
amount is less.
In order to transfer your HCFSA funds to your HSA, you will need to know the name
of the financial institution that holds your HSA and the routing and account numbers
for the financial institution. If you don't have that information, contact your
FEHB HDHP to obtain it. Once you have that information you can call an FSAFEDS Benefits
Counselor to initiate the transfer. There may be a small transfer fee; if so, the
Benefits Counselor will let you know.
In addition, individuals impacted by the new tax relief have the option of doing
ONE of the following:
- You may cancel your 2007 general purpose HCFSA election for purposes of enrolling
in a HDHP with an HSA.
OR
- You may convert your 2007 general purpose HCFSA to a Limited Expense HCFSA (LEX
HCFSA, limited to dental and vision expenses only) and also, if you wish, change
your annual election amount.
OR
- If you are not a current participant in FSAFEDS and you enroll in a HDHP with an
HSA, you may now enroll in a LEX HCFSA.
DECEMBER 31, 2006
IS A VERY IMPORTANT DEADLINE - IF YOU ARE GOING TO MAKE ONE OF THE ABOVE CHANGES
YOU MUST NOTIFY US OF YOUR SELECTED CHANGE BY DECEMBER 31,2006.
Here's how you let us know about the change you wish to make. Click on
https://www.fsafeds.com/forms/BelatedEnrollment.pdf and fill out the form.
Make sure to state under the "other" checkbox one of the following:
- "Cancel my 2007 Health Care FSA election" or
- "Change my 2007 general purpose Health Care FSA election to a Limited Expense Health
Care FSA" (You can change your current election amount if you want to) or
- "Enroll me in a Limited Expense Health Care FSA for 2007".
Be sure to sign and fax the Belated Enrollment Form to FSAFEDS NO LATER THAN December
31, 2006. You must submit your enrollment change using the Belated Enrollment Form.
We cannot take your enrollment change over the phone.
Please visit http://www.opm.gov/hsa/2006TaxReliefAct.asp
for additional information on the new tax relief law and how it relates to HDHPs.
If you have questions about the above FSAFEDS options or want to make an account
balance transfer, please call an FSAFEDS Benefits Counselor toll free at 1-877-FSAFEDS
(372-3337), (TYY: 1-800-952-0450), Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M.,
Eastern Time.
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December 2006
Association Benefit Plan Expands Offerings to Additional Agencies
This year, all members of the Intelligence Community are eligible to enroll in the
Association Benefit Plan for 2007.
If you intend to enroll in this FEHB plan for 2007 and would like to enroll in FSAFEDS,
please call an FSAFEDS Benefits Counselor at 1-877-FSAFEDS (372-3337), (TYY: 1-800-952-0450),
Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., Eastern Time.
For more information on Association Benefit Plan, visit the
plan brochure at www.opm.gov.
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November 2006
FSAFEDS Announces Mileage Rate Increase for 2007!
FSAFEDS is pleased to announce that the IRS has implemented an increase in the standard
mileage rate when using a car or motorcycle to obtain medical care. Effective January
1, 2007, you will be able to claim 20 cents per mile for travel to and from eligible
health care providers for medical care received during the 2007 calendar year. For
more information on transportation expenses, refer to
"Transportation" on the Eligible Expenses
Juke Box.
The notification comes just in time for the 2007 FSAFEDS Open Season! Be sure to
consider your mileage expenses when deciding your 2007 election!
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June 2006
FSAFEDS Important Reminder: Final Grace Period Reconciliation
FSAFEDS will conduct the final grace period reconciliation (true-up) for the 2005
Benefit Period on July 14, 2006. This final reconciliation will automatically occur
for all participants with a remaining balance for the 2005 Benefit Period after
May 31.
What does this mean for you? It means nothing if you used up your 2005 balance by
December 31, 2005. But if you still had money in your 2005 account going into 2006,
it is important. It means that all eligible expenses you incurred during the grace
period (January 1 through March 15, 2006) will be applied toward your 2005 account
up to the available balance. This means your 2005 balance will decrease by the amount
of your grace period claims and your 2006 account will be credited that same amount.
For more information about the Grace Period, please visit the
Summary of Benefits with Frequently Asked Questions and select the
2 1/2 Month Grace Period section. You can also access your account information
at any time at My Account Summary.
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June 2006
The FSAFEDS Debit Card Pilot FAQs
For more information regarding FSAFEDS Debit Card program, please refer to the Debit Card Pilot Frequently
Asked Questions.
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May 2006
FSAFEDS Announces a Debit Card Pilot Program!
FSAFEDS is pleased to announce the launch of a pilot program for Debit Cards to
be used with health care accounts. This means pilot participants can make eligible
health care purchases without using cash! The Debit Card will draw from a participant's
FSAFEDS health care account to cover purchases.
Participation in the pilot is limited to FSAFEDS participants enrolled in the Government
Employees Hospital Association Plan (GEHA) and runs from mid-June thru December
2006. Eligible participants will receive notification by mail.
The pilot will help FSAFEDS determine if we will offer a debit card option to all
FSAFEDS participants for the 2007 Benefit Period. We will rely on participant feedback
and other evaluation criteria when making a decision about 2007.
FSAFEDS is very excited about this Debit Card pilot - we hope you are too!
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March 2006
The New BENEFEDS Portal Processes Payroll Deduction Functions
for FSAFEDS
The BENEFEDS Portal
is the new administrative system authorized by the Office of Personnel Management
to handle payroll deduction functions for FSAFEDS. The BENEFEDS Portal (also called
the "Voluntary Benefits Portal") works directly with SHPS, the third party administrator
for FSAFEDS, and Federal agencies to process the payroll deduction of your FSAFEDS
allotments. Please be assured that emails you send to
FSAFEDS@BENEFEDS.com are sent securely and the information received
is used solely to establish your FSAFEDS account.
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February 2006
FSAFEDS Important Reminder: Use It or Lose It!
Dear FSAFEDS Participant:
You are receiving this e-mail because as of February 10, 2006, you have a balance
remaining in your 2005 health care and/or dependent care flexible spending account.
You have until March 15, 2006 to incur eligible expenses towards your 2005 account
balance. That extra time to use your 2005 funds (January 1 - March 15) is called
the grace period. Please note that 2006 funds cannot be used to pay for expenses
incurred during the 2005 calendar year.
You can access your account information at any time by visiting www.FSAFEDS.com (https://www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/index.asp)
and logging in to My Account Summary.
***Remember - you only need to INCUR eligible expenses by March 15 to avoid forfeiting
your 2005 funds. You still have until May 31, 2006 to SUBMIT your claims for 2005
expenses.
If you have questions or have any difficulties accessing your information online,
contact us via email at FSAFEDS@shps.com or call an FSAFEDS Benefits Counselor at
1-877-FSAFEDS (372-3337), (TTY: 1-800-952-0450), Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.
until 9:00 p.m., Eastern Time.
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January 2006
Welcome to FSAFEDS!
We look forward to serving you throughout the 2006 Benefit Period.
Below is a quick list of important information and dates that you should know. Please
feel free to visit www.FSAFEDS.com at
any time for additional information.
- Customer Service Contacts:
Toll-free: 1-877-FSAFEDS (372-3337), TTY: 1-800-952-0450
Email: FSAFEDS@shps.com
FSAFEDS Benefits Counselors are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M. until
9:00 P.M., Eastern Time.
- The 2006 Benefit Period:
You have from January 1, 2006 through March 15, 2007 to incur eligible expenses
towards your health care and/or dependent care flexible spending account
- Claim Submission Information:
Claim Form: Available at www.FSAFEDS.com
located at the top of the page on the bottom of the flag banner
Toll-free Fax: 1-866-643-2245
Outside U.S. Fax: 1-502-267-2233
Standard Mail: FSAFEDS Program, PO Box 36880, Louisville, KY 40232
Overnight Mail: FSAFEDS Program, c/o SHPS, 11405 Bluegrass Pkwy, Louisville,
KY 40299
- Eligible Expenses:
Take a moment to peruse the Eligible Expense Juke Box by clicking on
https://www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/eligibleexpenses.asp. You can quickly
determine if a particular expense is eligible for reimbursement.
- Deadline for Filing Claims:
You must submit your claims no later than May 31, 2007.
- My Account Summary:(https://www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/login/participantlogin.asp)
My Account Summary allows you to check your claims, update your EFT, etc., 24/7
- - whenever it's convenient for you.
We're here to help make your FSAFEDS experience a pleasant one!
Welcome Aboard!
FSAFEDS
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December 2005
FSAFEDS Introduces a New Option for 2006: Limited Expense Health
Care Flexible Spending Account
Enrollees with a High Deductible Health Plan with a Health Savings Account have
the option of selecting a Limited Expense Health Care Flexible Savings Account (LEX
HCFSA) for the 2006 Benefit Period. To learn more, refer to the
LEX HCFSA
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September 2005
FSAFEDS Announces Mileage Rate Increase
The reimbursable mileage rate that you can claim for obtaining health care has increased
from $0.15 to $0.22 per mile. The new $0.22 rate is in effect from September through
December 2005. Click here
to learn more about using this benefit.
An IRS
press release cites the recent gas price increases as the reason for
this rate change. Normally the mileage rates are set in the fall for the following
calendar year. The IRS also indicates that because gas prices may decline in the
coming months, decisions regarding maintaining the new mileage rates for 2006 will
not be decided until closer to January. Please remember that the new rates are only
for September through December of this year.
Mileage has decreased to $.18 per mile as of 1/1/06.
For a copy of the press release, go to:
www.irs.ustreas.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=147423,00.html.
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September 2005
Impacted by Katrina or Rita? Need Help With Your FSAFEDS Account?
Our hearts go out to all affected by Hurricane Katrina and Rita. If you are an FSAFEDS
enrollee or family member who is experiencing a hardship involving your FSAFEDS
account, please call us toll-free at 1-877-372-3337, TTY: 1-800-952-0450 so we can
work with you.
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September 2005
FSAFEDS Announces Au Pair Placement Fees Are Now Eligible!
The up-front fee you may pay in order to obtain dependent care is an eligible expense
under your dependent care FSA. However, the fee can only be reimbursed proportionately
over the duration of the agreement to employ the dependent care provider, such as
an au pair. The weekly stipend, as well as other work-related expenses, may also
qualify as an expense for the care of a qualifying individual, depending on your
tax situation. For more information, refer to the
DCFSA in the Summary of Benefits
with Frequently Asked Questions.
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November 2004
New FEHB Plans Join Paperless Reimbursement Program
Beginning January 1, 2005, FSAFEDS will begin accepting claims via Paperless Reimbursement
from the following FEHB Plans:
- Humana
- National Association of Letter Carriers Benefit Plan
- Preferred Care
- Special Agents Mutual Benefit Association
For more information see the Paperless Reimbursement
Overview QRG.
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November 2004
FSAFEDS Introduces Online Payroll Schedules
Simply select your payroll provider from the FSAFEDS
Allotment Schedule list to view your allotment schedule. This tool
will help you identify the date on which we must receive your change in order for
it to be processed on a specific pay period. While this tool will be helpful in
determining when a specific allotment will occur, its purpose is not to determine
the effective date of a new election amount, i.e. a Qualifying Life Event. Refer
to the Qualifying Life Events QRG to learn
more.
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September 2004
OPM Announces New Health Benefits Option
In 2005, there will be a significant new choice in the Federal Employees Health
Benefits Program - High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) that incorporate Health
Savings Accounts (HSAs). HSAs are similar to Health Care Flexible Spending
Accounts (HCFSA) in that they are funded with pre-tax dollars that can be used for
the same type of health care expenses.
They are different from HCFSAs in that savings can accumulate from year-to-year
without limit - there is no forfeiture rule. HSAs are available to employees
who elect a HDHP that has an annual deductible of at least $1,050 for self, or $2,100
for family coverage, during Open Season. One of the most important things to
keep in mind is that you cannot have an HSA and a Health Care FSA (HCFSA) at the
same time. However, if you are otherwise eligible, you can still have a Dependent
Care FSA (DCFSA) even if you have an HSA.
NOTE: FSAFEDS is not involved in the HDHP offering, so if you have questions
regarding HDHPs and/or HSAs visit http://www.opm.gov/hsa.
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July 2004
FSAFEDS Launches Juke Box Detailing Eligible and Ineligible HCFSA
Expenses
Now there's a single-source available that details the eligible and ineligible HCFSA
expenses available under FSAFEDS - - and it's available at your fingertips!
Visit our FSAFEDS Juke Box today
- - you may just find a new expense you can claim!
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July 2004
Updated Frequently Asked Questions
Our new and improved Summary of Benefits
with Frequently Asked Questions will answer many of the questions you
have regarding the FSAFEDS program. Topics range from the
Open Season and Enrollment to more complex issues, such as a
Qualifying Life Event. Visit our
Summary of Benefits with Frequently Asked Questions today
and starting learning how you can save!
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July 2004
FSAFEDS Now Supports Netscape Version 6.1 and Higher
Only Netscape browser versions 6.1 and higher meet accessibility requirements.
Attention Netscape Users! The FSAFEDS web site now supports Netscape browser
versions 6.1, or higher due to accessibility requirements. If you are using an older
version, we recommend upgrading to one that is compatible with the system requirements.
A free browser upgrade can be downloaded at
www.netscape.com. Internet Explorer users will not be not affected.
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July 2004
M.D. IPA Now Offering Paperless Reimbursement
M.D. IPA Enrollees can now select paperless reimbursement.
FSAFEDS is pleased to announce that M.D. IPA is now participating in the Paperless
Reimbursement program. If you are an M.D. IPA participant, simply log in to
My Account Summary and
select the Paperless Reimbursement option on the left side of your screen.
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May 2004
Legislative Update on FSA Rollovers
House Passes Rollover Legislation, But Senate Must Approve Before Bill Becomes Law
The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation (H.R. 4279) that would
allow up to $500 of unused funds to carry forward either:
- In a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) from one Benefit Period to the next, or
- Be contributed to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
However, the Senate must still pass this legislation and the President must sign
the bill before it becomes law. Therefore, until this legislation is acted upon
by the Senate, FSA carryovers are still not permitted and all unused funds in any
Benefit Period will still be forfeited.
Although it is widely believed that by easing the "use-it-or-lose-it" rule and allowing
a carryover provision, more employees will participate in these tax-advantaged programs
and become more prudent users of health care services, there is no indication when,
or if, the Senate will act upon this legislation.
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January 2004
Paperless Reimbursement Program Updates
FSAFEDS has partnered with a number of FEHB plans to implement Paperless Reimbursement.
This new program eliminates the need for manually submitting your Explanation of
Benefit statements to FSAFEDS. Instead, once your FEHB plan processes your medical,
dental, and/or prescription claims, they will submit your out-of-pocket expense(s)
electronically to FSAFEDS for Paperless Reimbursement for your Health Care Flexible
Spending Account (HCFSA). Not only are you saving money with your HCFSA, you are
saving valuable time as well! Please click
here for updated Frequently Asked Questions. You may also view the
Paperless Reimbursement Quick Reference Guide
for additional program information.
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September 2003
FSAFEDS Publishes OTC Medicine Reference Guide
The recent IRS ruling allowed for reimbursement of certain over-the-counter (OTC)
medicines and products from your Health Care Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA).
FSAFEDS has issued guidelines for participants when filing their claims for eligible
OTC products in the form of a Quick Reference Guide.
The guide lists the type or class of products that fall into the eligible, dual
purpose, and excluded categories, as well as listing examples for each category.
This document should provide FSAFEDS HCFSA participants a thorough overview of eligible
and ineligible OTC expenses, as well as how to file reimbursement claims for these
items. You can access the FSAFEDS OTC Quick Reference Guide by clicking on the link
above or entering the Literature area
of the web site. Scroll down to view additional information on the OTC ruling, including
the press release announcing that OPM will cover OTC medicines under the Health
Care Flexible Spending Account and the effective date for OTC coverage, January
1, 2004.
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FSAFEDS Will Cover Over-the-Counter Medicines
Non-prescription antacids, allergy medicines, pain relievers, and cold medicines
purchased to alleviate or treat employees and their dependents personal injuries
or sickness are eligible for reimbursement through your HCFSA, effective at the beginning
of the new Benefit Period on January 1, 2004. Vitamins and other dietary
supplements that are merely beneficial to general health remain ineligible for reimbursement.
The IRS ruling does not affect existing HCFSA rules, meaning your eligible expenses
must still be incurred during your period of coverage and must not be reimbursable
through another plan. Click on the
IRS Ruling to read a detailed account or view the
OPM Press Release for more information.
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