As of January 1, 2011, FSA participants must get a doctor’s prescription to use their account to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) drugs – a provision that places an unnecessary burden on consumers.
If you have faced challenges complying with this new rule, including difficulties obtaining an OTC prescription, we’d like to hear from you.
Click here to share your story at the new OTC Rule Complaint Center >
Schumer pushes for commuter tax extension
1/5/12 - The Hill
Commuting Puzzle: Why Driving Is Rewarded Over Taking the Bus
12/9/11 - New York Times
Commuters at risk of tax discrimination and increase
12/8/11 - The Hill
Unless Congress acts, mass transit riders will be penalized in 2012
12/6/11 - Benefits Pro
More news >
Tell Congress to Fix
“Use It or Lose It” Rule
As Congress seeks to make our health care system work better, they should fix the rule that forces flexible spending account (FSA) holders to empty their accounts before the end of each plan year or forfeit whatever remains.
A more sensible approach is to allow American families to cash-out unused funds, since it is not always so easy to predict your out-of-pocket health care expenses a year in advance.
The health care reform law will limit flexible spending account (FSA) contributions to $2,500 per year starting in 2013. Use this calculator to see how such a limit would affect you.
As of January 1, 2011, FSA participants are no longer able to use their FSAs to purchase over-the-counter-medicines such as allergy medication and cough syrup.
FACT:
FSA participants can continue to use their FSAs to purchase over-the-counter medicines. However, as of January 1, 2011, a doctor’s prescription will be required for over-the-counter medicines to be reimbursed through an FSA, HRA or HSA.
