Tis the Season to use your Flexible Spending Account Benefit

We strive to make your experience caring for your family’s vision as easy as possible at Clarendon Vision. This is our annual reminder that if you have an employer-sponsored Flexible Spending Account plan, now is the time to check your balances and be sure to use any remaining funds. FSA funds typically need to be used by the end of the calendar year, though some employers offer a grace period of 2 months.

Because corrective lenses (glasses and contact lenses) are only available with a prescription, they do qualify as an allowed expense for a Flexible Spending Account plan. Every plan varies in how the funds are given to the insured person. Some include a debit card you use to charge your medical expenses. Some require you to pay with your own credit card or check first, then submit paperwork for reimbursement. Most plans today include an online portal where you can check your balances and determine what medical expenses qualify.

The regulations on FSAs are pretty standardized by 2019 and most people are familiar with them, but we are always happy to help answer questions to the best of our ability. We work with a lot of families covered in a variety of different insurance plans. There are good news articles about FSA plans that may help you understand any differences in 2019 versus prior years, too. This detailed publication from the IRS can help answer questions as well.

This time of year is also annual enrollment time, when you can view medical benefits options available to you and choose a plan from your employer offerings. The U.S. government’s site healthcare.gov also offers annual enrollment through December 15, 2019 for those not eligible for an employer-sponsored healthcare plan.

Our primary interest as your vision care specialists is ensuring you and your family have regular comprehensive vision exams and bring your vision concerns to us so we can help you develop a plan for great vision. Flexible Spending Accounts can be used for comprehensive vision exams as well as any prescription lenses your optometrist prescribes. This even includes prescription sunglasses. Make an appointment today to see us before the end of the year.

It is a great idea to prioritize your family’s vision for 2019. We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season!