February 9, 2007

FSA expenses for 2006

MGH employees with 2006 Health Care or Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) have until March 15 to incur expenses and submit them to the Human Resources Benefits Office. Below are some frequently asked questions about the FSAs.

I have money in my 2006 FSA but would rather use my 2007 FSA to cover expenses I just incurred. Can I do this?
Yes. When MGHers submit their reimbursement forms, available on the MGH Benefits Intranet site, they should check off the box indicating that they would like reimbursement to come from their 2007 FSA. Otherwise, the Benefits Office automatically will reimburse employees from their 2006 FSA. MGH employees cannot submit expenses against their 2007 balance that were incurred in 2006.

What must I submit as proof of expenses?
Along with the reimbursement form, employees should submit a paid invoice or receipt. An itemized cash register receipt is sufficient for in-store purchases such as over-the-counter medications. When submitting dependent care expenses, include a Social Security or Tax ID number for daycare or other service providers.

How can I tell when I have received reimbursement from my FSA?
Two weeks after MGHers submit their claims, reimbursement should appear on the "Earnings" portion of their paycheck.

How do I check my FSA balance?
Employees can log onto PeopleSoft and go to Self Service > Flex Spend > Flexible Spending Accounts and then choose "2006" as the calendar year. Paychecks only list recent FSA reimbursements, not FSA account balances.

My son is going to music camp. Is this reimbursable?
Expenses for specialty day camps (such as computer or soccer camps) qualify for reimbursement, if they meet IRS rules. However, overnight camps — including specialty camps — do not qualify.

Can I be reimbursed for preschool tuition?
Nursery school expenses qualify for reimbursement, but expenses for programs at the kindergarten level and above do not.

Are over-the-counter drugs reimbursable?
Yes, if used to treat an existing medical condition; for example, cold medicine or aspirin. However, vitamins, dietary supplements and other products, which are beneficial to health but do not treat an existing accident or illness, cannot be reimbursed. A list of eligible and ineligible Health Care FSA expenses are available at hcet.ebia.com/partners.

For more information, contact the Benefits Office at ibenefits@partners.org or call (617) 726-8133.