Brunswick County Public Schools Ameriflex DCA 2023-2024

Set aside tax-free money for daycare and dependent care services.

Use the below information to determine if a Dependent Care Account (DCA) is right for you and how to best take advantage of a DCA account.

How It Works

When you enroll in a Dependent Care Account (DCA) you get to experience tax savings on expenses like daycare, elderly care, summer day camp, preschool, and other services that allow you to work full time.

The Value & Perks

– Save On Eligible Expenses: You can use a DCA to pay for qualifying expenses such as daycare, summer day care, elder care, before and after school programs, and pre-school.

– Keep More Money: The funds are taken out of your paycheck “pre-tax” (meaning they are subtracted from your gross earnings before taxes) throughout the course of the year. Let’s say you earn $40,000 a year and contribute $1,500 to an DCA; so, only $38,500 of your income gets taxed. That means you are increasing your take-home pay simply by participating!

– Easy Spending and Account Management: You will receive an Ameriflex Debit Mastercard linked to their DCA. They can use their card for eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Account information can be securely accessed 24/7 online and through the mobile app.

Eligible DCA Expenses

The IRS determines what expenses are eligible under a DCA. Here are some examples of common eligible expenses:

– Daycare or elder care

– Before-school and after-school care

– Preschool and nursery school

– Private sitter

– Summer day camp

– Nanny service

For a full list of eligible expenses, go to myameriflex.com/eligibleexpenses.

Brunswick County Public Schools Ameriflex LPFSA 2023-2024

Set aside tax-free money for dental and vision expenses.

Use the below information to determine if a Limited Purpose Flexible Spending Account (LPFSA) is right for you and how to best take advantage of an LPFSA account.

How It Works

A Limited Purpose Flexible Spending Account (LPFSA) is a special type of FSA that allows you to set aside tax-free money to pay for eligible dental and vision expenses. What makes an LPFSA unique is that it can be used in conjunction with a Health Savings Account (HSA), allowing you to grow your HSA funds while using the LPFSA to pay for immediate dental and vision needs. Other than the restriction of eligible expenses to vision, dental, and orthodontia, the rules governing the LPFSA are the same as those that apply to an FSA.

The Value & Perks

– Save On Eligible Expenses: You can save up to 40% on qualifying expenses such as vision appointments, LASIK, contact lenses and solution, glasses, teeth cleaning, dentures, and dental and vision copays. You can contribute to an LPFSA and HSA in the same plan year, allowing you to save and grow your HSA balance, while using the LPFSA to pay for everyday expenses.

– Keep More Money: The funds are taken out of your paycheck “pre-tax” (meaning they are subtracted from your gross earnings before taxes) throughout the course of the year. Let’s say you earn $40,000 a year and contribute $1,500 to an LPFSA; so, only $38,500 of your income gets taxed. That means you are increasing your take-home pay simply by participating!

– Easy Spending and Account Management: You will receive an Ameriflex Debit Mastercard linked to your LPFSA. You can use your card for eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Account information can be securely accessed 24/7 online and through the mobile app.

Eligible LPFSA Expenses

You can use your LPFSA to pay for expenses related to dental and vision. Below are some examples of common eligible expenses:

– Vision exams

– LASIK

– Contact lenses and solution

– Glasses

– Dentures

– Dental x-rays, crowns, fillings, and other orthodontia work

– Dental and vision copays and deductibles

For a full list of eligible expenses, go to myameriflex.com/eligibleexpenses.

Brunswick County Public Schools Ameriflex FSA 2023-2024

An account for setting aside tax-free money for healthcare expenses.

Use the below information to determine if a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is right for you and how to best take advantage of an FSA account.

How It Works

When you enroll in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) you get to experience tax savings on qualified expenses such as copays, deductibles, prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and medications, and thousands of other everyday items.

Can I have an FSA and an HSA?

You can’t contribute to an FSA and HSA within the same plan year. However, you can contribute to an HSA and a limited purpose FSA, which only covers dental and vision expenses.

As per IRS Publication 969, an employee covered by an HDHP and a health FSA or an HRA that pays or reimburses qualified medical expenses generally can’t make contributions to an HSA. An employee is also not HSA-eligible during an FSA Grace Period. An employee enrolled in a Limited Purpose FSA is HSA-eligible.

As a married couple, one spouse cannot be enrolled in an FSA at the same time the other is contributing to an HSA. FSA coverage extends tax benefits to family members allowing the FSA holder to be reimbursed for medical expenses for themselves, their spouse, and their dependents.

The Value & Perks

– Election Accessibility: You will have access to your entire election on the first day of the plan year.

– Save On Eligible Expenses: You can save up to 40% on thousands of eligible everyday expenses such as prescriptions, doctor’s visits, dental services, glasses, over-the-counter medicines, and copays.

– Keep More Money: The funds are taken out of your paycheck “pre-tax” (meaning they are subtracted from your gross earnings before taxes) throughout the course of the year. Let’s say you earn $40,000 a year and contribute $1,500 to an FSA; so, only $38,500 of your income gets taxed. That means you are increasing your take-home pay simply by participating!

– Easy Spending and Account Management: Employees will receive an Ameriflex Debit Mastercard linked to their FSA. Employees can use their card for eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Account information can be securely accessed 24/7 online and through the mobile app.

Eligible FSA Expenses

The IRS determines what expenses are eligible under an FSA. Below are some examples of common eligible expenses:

– Deductibles

– Copays

– Prescriptions

– Teeth cleaning

– LASIK

– Glasses and contact lenses

– Band-aids

– Sunscreen

– Over-the-counter medicine (prescription required)

– Feminine menstrual care

For a full list of eligible expenses, go to myameriflex.com/eligibleexpenses.

The “Use-or-Lose” Rule

If you contribute dollars to a reimbursement account and do not use all the money you deposit, you will lose any remaining balance in the account at the end of the eligible claims period. This rule, established by the IRS as a component of tax-advantaged plans, is referred to as the “use-or-lose” rule.

To avoid losing any of the funds you contribute to your FSA, it’s important to plan ahead as much as possible to estimate what your expenditures will be in a given plan year.

Brunswick County Public Schools Ameriflex Important Savings Account Information 2023-2024

Online Account Instructions

How to Access Your Ameriflex Account:

Go to MyAmeriflex.com and click “Login” from the upper right hand corner. When prompted, select “Participant.”

How to Register Online For Your Ameriflex Spending Account:

Click the register button atop the right corner of the home screen.

  1. As the primary account holder, enter your personal information.
    – Choose a unique User ID and create a password (if you are told that your username is invalid or already taken, you must select another).
    – Enter your first and last name.
    – Enter your email address.
    – Enter your Employee ID, which in most cases, will be the account holder’s Social Security Number(no dashes or spaces needed).
  2. Check the box if you accept the terms of use.
  3. Click ‘register’. The process may take a few seconds. Do not click your browser’s back button or refresh the page.
  4. Last, you must complete your Secure Authentication setup. Implemented to protect your privacy and help us prevent fraudulent activity, setup is quick and easy. After the registration form is successfully completed, you will be prompted to complete the secure authentication setup process:
    Step 1: Select a Security Question option, and type in a corresponding answer.
    Step 2: Repeat for the following three Security Questions, then click next.
    Step 3: Verify your email address, and then click next.
    Step 4: Verify and submit setup information.
  5. The registration process is complete! Should you receive an information error message that does not easily guide you through the information correction process, please feel free to contact our dedicated Member Services Team at 888.868.FLEX (3539).

After registering, you can log into your account to:

– Check your balance

– Order replacement cards

– Submit claims for reimbursement

– Update your reimbursement method, and more…

Want to Manage Your Account on the go?

Download the MyAmeriflex mobile app, available through the App Store or Google Play. This is the quickest and easiest way to access your account on the go. The mobile app offers the same functionality as your online account.

Your credentials for the MyAmeriflex Portal and the MyAmeriflex Mobile App are the same; there is no need for separate login information!

Using Your Ameriflex Card

You’ll receive a Mastercard debit card linked to your Ameriflex account that can be used to pay for eligible expenses. If you have more than one account, such as a flexible spending account and dependent care account, your card is linked to both accounts and knows which funds to pull from when you make a purchase. If you lose your card, you can request a complimentary replacement by logging into your Ameriflex account or the Ameriflex mobile app.

Eligible Expenses

Before you make a purchase, it’s important to verify that the expense is eligible under the rules of your plan. Spending and saving accounts reimburse specific expenses unique to those accounts. Visit our Help Center for more information about eligible expenses.

Help Center and Support

Your satisfaction is our top priority, and our team of experts are ready to help whenever you need it. The Help Center is the best place to go for quick answers to your questions and more information about your account. You can access the Help Center at myameriflex.com/HelpCenter.

The Ameriflex Participant Services team is available Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM CST and Saturday: 9:00 AM to 1 :00 PM CST.

Call: 888.868.3539
Email: service@myameriflex.com
Live Chat: myameriflex.com

Brunswick County Public Schools Ameriflex HSA 2023-2024

A personal tax-free savings account for healthcare expenses and investing. 

Use the below information to determine if a Health Savings Account (HSA) is right for you and how to best take advantage of an HSA account.

How It Works

You can enroll in a Health Savings Account (HSA) to experience tax savings on qualified healthcare expenses such as copays, deductibles, prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and medications, and prescriptions. There is no use-or-lose rule, meaning you can save and invest when you can or spend on eligible healthcare expenses as needed.

To enroll in a HSA, you must already be enrolled in an HSA-qualifying high deductible health plan (HDHP).

As a married couple, one spouse cannot be enrolled in an FSA at the same time the other is contributing to an HSA.

The Value & Perks

– Triple Tax Savings: Every dollar you contribute to an HSA lowers your taxable income, funds grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free.

– Employee-Owned: It’s a personal savings account owned by you. Which means you can keep it even if you switch health plans, change jobs, or retire. You’ll receive an Ameriflex Debit Mastercard linked to your HSA that can be used for eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted.

– Investing & Saving: You can save and invest your funds with over 30 investment options. HSA funds roll over year to year, allowing long-term growth if there are no immediate spending needs.

– $1,000 Investment Threshold: While many HSA administrators require a $2,000+ account balance before funds can be invested, Ameriflex has a modest $1,000 investment balance requirement, allowing participants to invest their money faster.

– Catch-Up Contributions: Individuals ages 55 and older who are not enrolled in Medicare can make an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution to their HSA.

– No Hidden Fees: We don’t believe participants should have to pay extra fees to reach their full savings potential. By eliminating hidden fees, participants keep more of their hard-earned money for current and future health needs.

– Easy Spending and Account Management: You will receive an Ameriflex Debit Mastercard linked to your HSA. You can use your card for eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Account information can be securely accessed 24/7 online and through the mobile app.

Eligible HSA Expenses

The IRS determines what expenses are eligible under an HSA. Below are some examples of common eligible expenses:

– Deductibles

– Copays

– Prescriptions

– Dental work and orthodontia

– LASIK

– Glasses and contact lenses

– Band-aids

– Sunscreen

For a full list of eligible expenses, go to myameriflex.com/eligibleexpenses.

Brunswick County Public Schools Enrollment Instructions – Harmony 2023-2024

Below is a series of instructions outlining the online self-enrollment process. Please have the following information available before you begin:

– Username, password, and enrollment website URL from Step 1 of this page

– Dates of birth and social security numbers of your spouse and any dependents you wish to enroll

– Beneficiary names and social security numbers

Helpful Tips:

– If you are a new employee, please refer here for more information or contact the PGB Service Center at 800-387-5955 between 8:30am and 5:00pm for assistance.

– If you are an existing employee and unable to login to the online system, please contact the Harmony Help Desk at 866-875-4772 between 8:30am and 6:00pm, or speak with the Benefits Representative assigned to your location.

How To Enroll:

1. Logging In 

Enter your User Name: BRU5W5T- and then Last Name and then Last 4 of Social Security Number (BRU5W5T-SMITH6789)

Enter your Password: Four digit Year of Birth and then Last 4 of Social Security Number (19766789)

To login, visit: https://harmonyenroll.coloniallife.com

2. Creating a New Password

You will be prompted to create a new password. Your password must have: 1 lowercase letter, 1 uppercase letter, 1 number, and 8 characters minimum.

Your password cannot include: first name, last name, spaces, special characters (such as ! $ % &), or User ID.

3. Creating a New Password

Choose a security question and enter answer.

4. Begin Enrollment

Click on ‘I Agree’ and then ‘Enter My Enrollment’.

5. Verification

The screen shows ‘Me & My Family’. Verify that the information is correct and enter the additional required information (title, marital status, work phone, e-mail address).

Click ‘Save & Continue’ twice.

6. Family Member Information

The screen allows you to add family members. It is only necessary to enter family member information if adding or including family members in your coverage.

Click ‘Continue’.

7. Personal Information

The screen shows updated personal information. Verify that the information is correct and make changes if necessary.

Click ‘Continue’.

8. Review Elections

The screen shows ‘My Benefits’. Review your current benefits and make changes/selections for the upcoming plan year.

9. Finish Enrollment

Click ‘Finish’.

10. Confirm Elections

Click ‘I Agree’ to electronically sign the authorization for your benefit elections.

11. Print & Log Out

Click ‘Print a copy of your Elections’ to print a copy of your elections, or download and save the document. Please do not forget this important step!

Click ‘Log out & close your browser window’ and click ‘Log Out’.

Brunswick County Public Schools Important Information About Your Enrollment 2023-2024

IN-PERSON

During your open enrollment period, a Pierce Group Benefits representative will be available by appointment to answer any questions you may have and to assist you in the enrollment process.

ONLINE

You may enroll or make changes online to your flexible benefits plan. To enroll online, please visit: https://harmonyenroll.coloniallife.com

ENROLLMENT PERIOD: AUGUST 1, 2023 – AUGUST 15, 2023

YOU CAN MAKE THE FOLLOWING BENEFIT ELECTIONS ONLINE DURING THE ENROLLMENT PERIOD:

– Enroll in, change or cancel The Local Choice benefits (Health, Dental, and Vision).*

– Enroll in, change or cancel Health Savings Account (HSA).

– Enroll/Re-Enroll in Flexible Spending Accounts.**

– Enroll in, change or cancel Colonial coverage.

*The Local Choice enrollments, changes and cancellations will be completed on TLC paper applications and returned to Amy Clary at the Central Office (clarya@brunswickcps.org). If you would like to make any changes to your current election, please be sure to meet one-on-one with a Benefits Representative.

**You will need to re-enroll in the Flexible Spending Accounts if you want them to continue each year. 

ACCESS YOUR BENEFITS ONLINE WHENEVER, WHEREVER.

You can view details about what benefits your employer offers, view educational videos about all of your benefits, download forms, chat with one of our knowledgeable Service Center Specialists, and more on your personalized benefits website.

Brunswick County Public Schools Benefits Plan Overview 2023-2024

Pre-Tax Benefits

Health Insurance: The Local Choice – Anthem

Dental Insurance: The Local Choice – Delta Dental of VA

Vision Insurance: The Local Choice – Blue View Vision

Health Savings Accounts: Ameriflex
– Employee Maximum $3,850/year
– Family Maximum $7,750/year
HSA plans can only be established in conjunction with a qualified High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
Brunswick County Public Schools will contribute $250 annually to the employee’s HSA.

Flexible Spending Accounts: Ameriflex
– Medical Reimbursement Maximum: $3,050/year
– Dependent Care Reimbursement Maximum: $5,000/year
– Limited Purpose Reimbursement Maximum: $3,050/year
You will need to re-enroll in the Flexible Spending Accounts if you want them to continue next year.
IF YOU DO NOT RE-ENROLL, YOUR CONTRIBUTION WILL STOP EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 30, 2023.

Cancer Benefits: Colonial Life

Accident BenefitsColonial Life

Medical Bridge BenefitsColonial Life

 

Post-Tax Benefits

Disability BenefitsColonial Life

Critical Illness BenefitsColonial Life

Life InsuranceColonial Life
– Term Life Insurance
– Whole Life Insurance

 

Please note your insurance products will remain in effect unless you speak with a representative to change them.

 

Enrollment Period: AUGUST 1, 2023 – AUGUST 15, 2023

Effective Dates: OCTOBER 1, 2023 – SEPTEMBER 30, 2024

 

ELIGIBILITY:

– Employees must work 30 hours or more per week and/or be a contracted employee.

IMPORTANT NOTICES:

When do my benefits start? The plan year for The Local Choice Benefits (Anthem Health, Delta Dental, and Blue View Vision), Health Savings Accounts, Spending Accounts, and Colonial Insurance products lasts from October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024.

When do my deductions start? Deductions for The Local Choice Benefits (Anthem Health, Delta Dental and Blue View Vision) will begin September 2023. Deductions for Health Savings Accounts, Spending Accounts, and Colonial Insurance Products will begin October 2023.

Why have my Cancer, Accident, or Medical Bridge benefits not started yet? The Health Screening Rider on the Colonial Medical Bridge plan has a 30-day waiting period for new enrollees. Coverage, therefore, will not begin until October 31, 2023.

How do Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds work, and do my FSA funds have to be used by a specific deadline? Flexible Spending Account expenses must be incurred during the Plan Year to be eligible for reimbursement. Failure to use all allotted funds in the FSA account by the deadline will result in a “Use It or Lose It” scenario. After the plan year ends or the employee’s termination date, they have 90 days to submit claims for incurred spending account expenses. If employment is terminated before the plan year ends, the flexible spending account(s) also ends, and any unused funds are forfeited. Additionally, for a married couple, if one spouse contributes to an HSA, the other cannot enroll in a Medical Reimbursement FSA simultaneously.

How do Dependent Care Account (DCA) funds work and when do they need to be used? Dependent Care Accounts (DCAs) are like FSA accounts and allow you to request reimbursement up to your current balance. However, you cannot receive more reimbursement than what has been deducted from your pay. It’s important to note that any remaining funds in your DCA account must be utilized before the deadline. Failure to do so will result in a “Use It or Lose It” scenario.

When will I get my card? If you will be receiving a new debit card, whether you are a new participant or to replace your expired card, please be aware that it may take up to 30 days following your plan effective date for your card to arrive. Your card will be delivered by mail in a plain white envelope. During this time you may use manual claim forms for eligible expenses. Please note that your debit card is good through the expiration date printed on the card.

I want to sign my family up for benefits as well, what information will I need? If signing up for any coverage on your spouse and/or children, please have their dates of birth and social security numbers available when speaking with the Benefits Representative.

What does Pre-Tax vs. Post-Tax Change? Pre-Tax benefits take funds directly from your paycheck to cover benefits before going through State and Federal taxing process. Post-Tax collects funds for benefits after taxes have been taken out. Please be aware there are certain coverages that may be subject to federal and state tax when premium is paid by pretax deduction or employee contribution.

Can I change my benefit elections outside of the enrollment period? Elections made during this enrollment period CANNOT BE CHANGED AFTER THE ENROLLMENT PERIOD. Please speak with your Plan Administrator for more information.

I have a pre-existing condition. Will I still be covered? Some policies may include a pre-existing condition clause. Please read your policy carefully for full details.

Hoke County Schools Forms & Links 2023-2024

Colonial Life

Dental

Vision

Tax Sheltered Annuity

Student Loan Assistance Program

Telemedicine

Flex Accounts

Hoke County Schools Colonial Life / Health Advocate EAP + Work/Life Programs

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The Health Advocate Employee Assistance Program (EAP), available through your Colonial Life Group Term Life Insurance, offers confidential, short-term counseling from Licensed Professional Counselors for a full range of personal issues and achieving a healthy work/life balance across the life span. In a crisis, emergency help is available 24/7.

– Stress, anxiety, depression

– Relationship, family, parenting issues

– Substance Abuse

– Anger, grief, loss

– Life transitions

– Referrals for additional treatment, as needed

888-645-1772  |   ColonialLife.com/EAP

Work/Life Planning Services

The Health Advocate work/life services, available through your Colonial Life Group Term Life Insurance, offers financial and legal counseling services, as well as grief support and referral for up to 12 months after a claim.

877.240.6863   |   HealthAdvocate.com/members  (Organization Name: ColonialLife-LifePlanning)

Hoke County Schools The FSA Store 2023-2024

FLEX SPENDING WITH ZERO GUESSWORK

Your Health, Your Funds, Your Choice

Take control of your health and wellness with guaranteed FSA-eligible essentials. Pierce Group Benefits partners with the FSA Store to provide one convenient location for Flexible Spending Account holders to manage and use their FSA funds, and save on more than 4,000 health and wellness products using tax-free health money. Through our partnership, we’re also here to help answer the many questions that come along with having a Flexible Spending Account!

– The largest selection of guaranteed FSA-eligible products

– Phone and live chat support available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week

– Fast and free shipping on orders over $50

– Use your FSA card or any other major credit card for purchases

Other Great FSA Store Resources Available To You

Eligibility List: A comprehensive list of eligible products and services

FSA Calculator: Estimate how much you can save with an FSA

Learning Center: Easy tips and resources for living with an FSA

Savings Center: Where you can save even more on FSA-eligible essentials

FSAPerks: Take your health and funds further with the FSA Store rewards program

 

Shop FSA Eligible Products Through Our Partnership with The FSA Store!
BONUS: Get $20 off any order of $150+ with code PGB20FSA (one use per customer).

 

NEED HELP? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

FSA Store Customer Service

FSA Store Frequently Asked Questions

Hoke County Schools Ameriflex Important Flex Account Information 2023-2024

Online Account Instructions

How to Access Your Ameriflex Account:

Go to MyAmeriflex.com and click “Login” from the upper right hand corner. When prompted, select “Participant.”

How to Register Online For Your Ameriflex Spending Account:

Click the register button atop the right corner of the home screen.

  1. As the primary account holder, enter your personal information.
    – Choose a unique User ID and create a password (if you are told that your username is invalid or already taken, you must select another).
    – Enter your first and last name.
    – Enter your email address.
    – Enter your Employee ID, which in most cases, will be the account holder’s Social Security Number(no dashes or spaces needed).
  2. Check the box if you accept the terms of use.
  3. Click ‘register’. The process may take a few seconds. Do not click your browser’s back button or refresh the page.
  4. Last, you must complete your Secure Authentication setup. Implemented to protect your privacy and help us prevent fraudulent activity, setup is quick and easy. After the registration form is successfully completed, you will be prompted to complete the secure authentication setup process:
    Step 1: Select a Security Question option, and type in a corresponding answer.
    Step 2: Repeat for the following three Security Questions, then click next.
    Step 3: Verify your email address, and then click next.
    Step 4: Verify and submit setup information.
  5. The registration process is complete! Should you receive an information error message that does not easily guide you through the information correction process, please feel free to contact our dedicated Member Services Team at 888.868.FLEX (3539).

After registering, you can log into your account to:

– Check your balance

– Order replacement cards

– Submit claims for reimbursement

– Update your reimbursement method, and more…

Want to Manage Your Account on the go?

Download the MyAmeriflex mobile app, available through the App Store or Google Play. This is the quickest and easiest way to access your account on the go. The mobile app offers the same functionality as your online account.

Your credentials for the MyAmeriflex Portal and the MyAmeriflex Mobile App are the same; there is no need for separate login information!

Using Your Ameriflex Card

You’ll receive a Mastercard debit card linked to your Ameriflex account that can be used to pay for eligible expenses. If you have more than one account, such as a flexible spending account and dependent care account, your card is linked to both accounts and knows which funds to pull from when you make a purchase. If you lose your card, you can request a complimentary replacement by logging into your Ameriflex account or the Ameriflex mobile app.

Eligible Expenses

Before you make a purchase, it’s important to verify that the expense is eligible under the rules of your plan. Spending and saving accounts reimburse specific expenses unique to those accounts. Visit our Help Center for more information about eligible expenses.

Help Center and Support

Your satisfaction is our top priority, and our team of experts are ready to help whenever you need it. The Help Center is the best place to go for quick answers to your questions and more information about your account. You can access the Help Center at myameriflex.com/HelpCenter.

The Ameriflex Participant Services team is available Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM CST and Saturday: 9:00 AM to 1 :00 PM CST.

Call: 888.868.3539
Email: service@myameriflex.com
Live Chat: myameriflex.com

Hoke County Schools Ameriflex DCA 2023-2024

Set aside tax-free money for daycare and dependent care services.

Use the below information to determine if a Dependent Care Account (DCA) is right for you and how to best take advantage of a DCA account.

How It Works

When you enroll in a Dependent Care Account (DCA) you get to experience tax savings on expenses like daycare, elderly care, summer day camp, preschool, and other services that allow you to work full time.

The Value & Perks

– Save On Eligible Expenses: You can use a DCA to pay for qualifying expenses such as daycare, summer day care, elder care, before and after school programs, and pre-school.

– Keep More Money: The funds are taken out of your paycheck “pre-tax” (meaning they are subtracted from your gross earnings before taxes) throughout the course of the year. Let’s say you earn $40,000 a year and contribute $1,500 to an DCA; so, only $38,500 of your income gets taxed. That means you are increasing your take-home pay simply by participating!

– Easy Spending and Account Management: You will receive an Ameriflex Debit Mastercard linked to their DCA. They can use their card for eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Account information can be securely accessed 24/7 online and through the mobile app.

Eligible DCA Expenses

The IRS determines what expenses are eligible under a DCA. Here are some examples of common eligible expenses:

– Daycare or elder care

– Before-school and after-school care

– Preschool and nursery school

– Private sitter

– Summer day camp

– Nanny service

For a full list of eligible expenses, go to myameriflex.com/eligibleexpenses.

Hoke County Schools Ameriflex FSA 2023-2024

An account for setting aside tax-free money for healthcare expenses.

Use the below information to determine if a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is right for you and how to best take advantage of an FSA account.

How It Works

When you enroll in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) you get to experience tax savings on qualified expenses such as copays, deductibles, prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and medications, and thousands of other everyday items.

Can I have an FSA and an HSA?

You can’t contribute to an FSA and HSA within the same plan year. However, you can contribute to an HSA and a limited purpose FSA, which only covers dental and vision expenses.

As per IRS Publication 969, an employee covered by an HDHP and a health FSA or an HRA that pays or reimburses qualified medical expenses generally can’t make contributions to an HSA. An employee is also not HSA-eligible during an FSA Grace Period. An employee enrolled in a Limited Purpose FSA is HSA-eligible.

As a married couple, one spouse cannot be enrolled in an FSA at the same time the other is contributing to an HSA. FSA coverage extends tax benefits to family members allowing the FSA holder to be reimbursed for medical expenses for themselves, their spouse, and their dependents.

The Value & Perks

– Election Accessibility: You will have access to your entire election on the first day of the plan year.

– Save On Eligible Expenses: You can save up to 40% on thousands of eligible everyday expenses such as prescriptions, doctor’s visits, dental services, glasses, over-the-counter medicines, and copays.

– Keep More Money: The funds are taken out of your paycheck “pre-tax” (meaning they are subtracted from your gross earnings before taxes) throughout the course of the year. Let’s say you earn $40,000 a year and contribute $1,500 to an FSA; so, only $38,500 of your income gets taxed. That means you are increasing your take-home pay simply by participating!

– Easy Spending and Account Management: Employees will receive an Ameriflex Debit Mastercard linked to their FSA. Employees can use their card for eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Account information can be securely accessed 24/7 online and through the mobile app.

Eligible FSA Expenses

The IRS determines what expenses are eligible under an FSA. Below are some examples of common eligible expenses:

– Deductibles

– Copays

– Prescriptions

– Teeth cleaning

– LASIK

– Glasses and contact lenses

– Band-aids

– Sunscreen

– Over-the-counter medicine (prescription required)

– Feminine menstrual care

For a full list of eligible expenses, go to myameriflex.com/eligibleexpenses.

The “Use-or-Lose” Rule

If you contribute dollars to a reimbursement account and do not use all the money you deposit, you will lose any remaining balance in the account at the end of the eligible claims period. This rule, established by the IRS as a component of tax-advantaged plans, is referred to as the “use-or-lose” rule.

To avoid losing any of the funds you contribute to your FSA, it’s important to plan ahead as much as possible to estimate what your expenditures will be in a given plan year.