2012 Flexible Spending Accounts: Why Spend on LASIK Now?
Tuesday, January 24 2012
The Flexible Spending Account (FSA) rules are changing on January 1, 2013, and although we are only a month into 2012, the changes may influence how you spend your funds now. In 2013, employees will be limited to putting $2,500 pre-tax salary into their healthcare FSA per year. While there is currently no legal limit on pre-tax contributions, most employers typically set a limit of $5,000.
If you are an employee with a Flexible Spending Account, you have already decided how much pre-tax salary to divert into your account for 2012 during the open enrollment period. It is now important to decide how you will be using your FSA funds, while taking the 2013 limit into consideration.
If you are considering any big-ticket expenses such as LASIK or vision correction surgery, using your FSA is a great way to save money without having to pay out-of-pocket expenses. If your employer participates, simply have your vision correction surgery then submit your claim through your pre-paid Flexible Spending Account. Most programs will reimburse you immediately (up to your designated commitment level), giving you up to 12 months to pay (one paycheck at a time) and more time to enjoy your vision!
It is important to consider scheduling these procedures early, as you will forfiet any remaining FSA funds under the “use it or lose it” rule if you have not booked your procedure by the end of 2012. Due to a high demand of FSA patients looking to cash up on vision expenses at the end of the year, it is difficult to guarantee an appointment opening if you wait too late.
Here at Key-Whitman Eye Center, not only can you use your FSA funds towards LASIK or vision correction surgery, we are also currently offering an additional 10 percent off LASIK throughout the end of January with our "Perfect 10" Offer in honor of Dr. Whitman’s 10th year in a row on D Magazine’s Best Doctors in Dallas list.
If you’ve been considering LASIK, schedule your free consultation at Key-Whitman Eye Center today. Take advantage of the “Perfect 10” Offer, and your FSA funds before it’s too late!