Client Sub Content

King and Queen County Public Schools Benefits Plan Overview 2021

Pre-Tax Benefits

 Health Insurance: Anthem – The Local Choice

 Vision Insurance: Blue View Vision – The Local Choice

 Dental Insurance: Delta Dental of VA – The Local Choice

 Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Medical Reimbursement FSA Maximum $2,750/year
  • Limited Purpose FSA* Maximum $2,750/year
  • Dependent Care Reimbursement Maximum $5,000/year

*Limited Purpose FSA funds can only be used for qualifying vision, dental and orthodontia expenses

You will need to re-sign for the Flexible Spending Accounts if you want them to continue next year.

IF YOU DO NOT RE-SIGN, YOUR CONTRIBUTION WILL STOP EFFECTIVE JUNE 30, 2021.

 Health Savings Accounts

  • Employee Maximum $3,600/year
  • Family Maximum $7,200/year

HSA plans can only be established in conjunction with a qualified high-deductible health plan (HDHP)

 Cancer Benefits: Colonial Life

 Accident Benefits: Colonial Life

 Medical Bridge Benefits: Colonial Life

 Dental Insurance (Stand-Alone Policy): Delta

 

Post-Tax Benefits

 Disability Benefits: Colonial Life

 Critical Illness Benefits: Colonial Life

 Pre-Paid Legal Plan: Legal Resources

 Life Insurance

  • Term Life Insurance: Colonial Life
  • Whole Life Insurance: Colonial Life

 

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

 

ENROLLMENT PERIOD: MAY 3, 2021 – MAY 7, 2021

EFFECTIVE DATES: JULY 1, 2021 – JUNE 30, 2022

 

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• You must be a contract employee working 30 hours or more per week.

 

IMPORTANT FACTS:

• The plan year for The Local Choice benefits (Anthem Health, Delta Dental & Blue View Vision), Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Accounts, Delta Dental (stand-alone policy), Colonial Insurance products and Legal Resources Pre-Paid Legal plan lasts from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.

 

• Deductions for The Local Choice benefits (Anthem Health, Delta Dental & Blue View Vision), Delta Dental (stand-alone policy) and Legal Resources Pre-Paid Legal plan will begin June 2021. Deductions for Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Accounts and Colonial Insurance products will begin July 2021.

 

• Please visit www.piercegroupbenefits.com/kingandqueencountypublicschools to review plan summaries and other required health plan notices.

 

• If signing up for any coverage on your spouse and/or children, please have their dates of birth and social security numbers available when meeting with the Benefits Representative.

 

• 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.

 

• Elections made during this enrollment period CANNOT BE CHANGED AFTER THE ENROLLMENT PERIOD unless there is a family status change as defined by the Internal Revenue Code. Examples of a family status change are: marriage, divorce, death of a spouse or child, birth or adoption of a child, termination or commencement of a spouse’s employment, or the transition of spouse’s employment from full-time to part-time, or vice-versa.

 

• Once a family status change has occurred, an employee has 30 days to notify the Pierce Group Benefits Service Center at 1-800-387-5955 to request a change in elections.

 

• Flexible Spending Account expenses must be incurred during the Plan Year in order to be eligible for reimbursement.

 

• An employee has 90 days after the plan year ends to submit claims for spending account expenses that were incurred during the plan year. Please note that if employment terminates during the plan year, that employee’s plan year ends the day employment ends. The employee has 90 days after the termination date to submit claims.

 

• With Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, the maximum reimbursement you can request is equal to the current account balance in your Dependent Care account. You cannot be reimbursed more than has actually been deducted from your pay.

 

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

 

• 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 July 31, 2021.

 

• Additionally, some policies may include a pre-existing condition clause. Please read your policy carefully for full details.

 

• 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.

 

• An employee taking a leave of absence, other than under the Family & Medical Leave Act, may not be eligible to re-enter the Flexible Benefits Program until the next plan year. Please contact your Benefit Administrator for more information.

Hyde County Schools Forms & Links 2021

Colonial Life

Dental

Vision

Telemedicine

Flexible Spending Accounts

Hyde County Schools The FSAStore 2021

FLEX SPENDING WITH ZERO GUESSWORK

Pierce Group Benefits partners with the FSA Store to provide one convenient location for all your FSA-eligible purchases. Through our partnership, Pierce Group Benefits and FSA Store can help you shop for FSA eligible items and answer the many questions that come along with having a Flexible Spending Account.

 

  • – The largest selection of guaranteed FSA-eligible products
  • – 24/7 support, FREE shipping on orders over $50
  • – Are your health needs eligible? Easily check with our expansive Eligibility List
  • – Need an Rx? We’ll work with you to make getting one easier
  • – Learning Center – Get daily money-saving info
  • – Use your FSA Card or any major credit card

 

Accessing FSA Store is easy. Simply visit FSAstore.com/PGBFL for the largest selection of guaranteed FSA-eligible products with zero guesswork. Get $20 off $200+ with code PGBF20. One use per customer.

Accessing the FSAStore is easy. Simply visit www.FSAStore.com!

Hyde County Schools Important FSA Information 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I check my account balance?

You can check your real-time balance online by logging into MyAmeriflex or through the MyAmeriflex Mobile App. Ameriflex also provides 24/7 access to automated account information via telephone. Call 888.868.FLEX (3539) and follow the prompts to listen to balance and transaction information for your account.

How do I order a new card?

You can request a free replacement card online through your Ameriflex account or through the MyAmeriflex Mobile App.

What happens if I don’t use my FSA account balance by the end the year?

By law, employers are not allowed to return leftover money to participants. Furthermore, funds are forfeited if you leave your employer.

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.

How do these programs save me money on taxes?

Since the accounts are tax-advantaged, you get to leverage pre-tax payroll deductions — increasing your take-home pay and saving you money on everyday expenses. In many cases, you can experience savings of up to 40% on expenses eligible under your employer-sponsored plan.

Can I change my annual election amount?

FSA elections are irrevocable and cannot be changed during the period of coverage unless there is a permitted change in election event, such as a change in marital status, birth or adoption of a child, change in an employment status, etc. The event and contribution change must coincide.

How can I change my reimbursement setting to add direct deposit?

To set up direct deposit, simply login to MyAmeriflex, select reimbursement settings under the my account tab, then enter your banking information. We also offer a paper direct deposit form that can be mailed, faxed, or emailed to Ameriflex.

Will pre-taxing have an impact on Social Security benefits?

Reductions in your taxable pay may lead to a reduction in Social Security benefits; however, for most employees, the reduction in Social Security benefits is insignificant when compared to the value of paying lower taxes now.

Tax Credits vs. Dependent Care Spending Accounts

If you participate in a Dependent Care Spending Account, you cannot claim credits on your income tax return for the same expenses. Also, any amount reimbursed under this plan will reduce the amount of other dependent care expenses that you can claim for purposes of tax credits. Before you enroll in a Dependent Day Care Account, evaluate whether the federal income tax credit or the Dependent Care Spending Account is best for you.

ONE-TIME CLAIM FOR DEPENDENT CARE SERVICES

Ameriflex makes it easy to get reimbursed automatically from your account as your funds build up during the year. If you’re paying for childcare or elderly care each month, you can avoid submitting a manual claim every month to get reimbursed for expenses you paid out of pocket. All you have to do is submit one Claim Form for the entire year that shows the date range for which childcare/eldercare services will be provided, along with a signature from the service provider on the designated line of the form. As long as the form is signed by the provider, no receipt is needed. Once the recurring claim has been processed, Ameriflex will automatically reimburse you every month with a check or direct deposit as funds in your Dependent Care Account become available.

Hyde County Schools Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 2021

You made a great decision by enrolling in a flexible spending account (FSA) and/or dependent care account (DCA)! Now that you’ve gotten the difficult decisions out of the way, use this packet to learn how to best take advantage of your account. Let’s get started!

 

HOW YOUR FSA WORKS

Your FSA is a spending account that can be used to pay for a variety of healthcare expenses.

 

TWO GREAT PERKS COME WITH YOUR FSA:

  1. You will have access to your entire election on the first day of the plan year.

  2. 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. That means you are increasing your take-home pay simply by participating!

 

WHAT CAN I SPEND MY FSA FUNDS ON?

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

  • Copays, deductibles, and other payments you are responsible for under your health plan.

  • Routine exams, dental care, prescription drugs, eye care, and hearing aids.

  • Prescription glasses and sunglasses.

  • Certain over-the-counter (OTC) healthcare expenses such as Band-aids, medicine, First Aid supplies, etc. Note: OTC medicines require a doctor’s prescription to be eligible.

  • Diabetic equipment and supplies, durable medical equipment, and qualified medical products or services provided by a doctor.

 

HOW YOUR DCA WORKS

Your DCA is a spending account that can be used to pay for services like daycare, nursery school, and elder care. By simply participating in a DCA, you get to experience benefits like:

  1. A higher take-home pay thanks to your pre-tax payroll deductions

  2. Savings on daycare and other dependent care services you’re already paying for

  3. Easy-to-use MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard to make purchases

 

WHAT CAN I SPEND MY DCA FUNDS ON?

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

  • Daycare

  • Custodial care for dependent adults

  • Summer day camp

  • Nanny service

  • Before and after school programs

  • Pre-school

  • Nursery school

 

GETTING STARTED CHECKLIST

Use this checklist to take full advantage of all the great resources made available to you through your Flexible Spending Account and/or Dependent Care Account.

  1. Set Up Your MyAmeriflex Account

    MyAmeriflex is where you’ll have real-time access to all of your account information, including your current balance, transaction history, payment status, and more. To register your account, visit myameriflex.com, select “Login to your account,” and click “Participants.” Then click the “New User” link to get started. You will be asked to enter an Employee ID, which will be your Social Security number with no dashes or spaces, as well as a Registration ID, which will either be your Ameriflex Debit Mastercard number or Employer ID. If you don’t know your Employer ID, please reach out to your HR representative or contact the Ameriflex Participants Services team at 888.868.FLEX (3539).

  2. Download Mobile App

    The MyAmeriflex App lets you access and manage your account anywhere you go, 24/7. It puts all of the great features of the MyAmeriflex Portal right at your fingertips. You can download the app on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

  3. Register for Complimentary ID Theft Protection

    Ameriflex is pleased to offer our cardholders complimentary access to Mastercard’s comprehensive Identity Theft Protection program*, powered by CSID®. You can rest assured knowing that if your MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard (or any other debit/credit cards you choose to register!) gets misplaced or stolen, you can utilize Mastercard’s industry-leading ID theft protection and restoration services for everything you may need. To register, visit myameriflex.com/IDtheftprotection.

  4. Use Your Card

    You will receive a MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard that can be used to make eligible purchases. Your card will be mailed within 7-10 business days after your enrollment is processed by Ameriflex.

  5. Enroll for Direct Deposit

    By enrolling for direct deposit, getting reimbursed is easier and faster anytime you need to pay for an eligible expenses out of pocket. Login to MyAmeriflex to set up direct deposit.

  6. Start Spending

    You’re ready to make purchases! Be sure to hang on to your receipts anytime you make a purchase. Login to MyAmeriflex for a full list of eligible expenses.

 

The “Use It or Lose It” 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 it or lose it” 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.

 

HOW DO I PAY FOR ELIGIBLE EXPENSES?

Using Your MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard®

The easiest way to pay for eligible expenses is to use your MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard®, which provides you with access to your FSA accounts (healthcare or dependent care) with a single card. The MyAmeriflex Card works just like a regular debit card, but with three important differences:

  • Its use is limited to specific merchants* and to expenses deemed eligible by your plan.

  • You cannot use your MyAmeriflex Card at an ATM or to obtain “cash back” when making a purchase.

  • When using the card at self-service merchant terminals, you may select the ‘credit’ option to sign for your purchase, if offered a choice. If you are prompted to enter a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and do not have it, ask the provider to process the transaction so that you may sign the receipt. (To set up a PIN, register your account online at myameriflex.com/register.)

Use of the MyAmeriflex Card is limited to day care providers; medical care providers such as hospitals, doctors’ offices, optometrists, dentist, orthodontists, pharmacies, or other merchants providing prescription and overthe- counter eligible products. Your card cannot be used at non-qualified businesses such as gas stations, retailers, convenience stores, etc.

 

Filing A Manual Claim

If you do not use your MyAmeriflex Card to pay for an eligible expense, you can also pay for the expenses out-ofpocket and then get reimbursed from your FSA by filing a manual claim. To file a manual claim, simply complete the Claim Form (myameriflex.com/claim-form) and send it to Ameriflex along with verification of the claim. Acceptable forms of verification include itemized receipts and the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance carrier.

Claims can be submitted through the following methods:

 

Other Helpful Information

What if there’s not enough money in my account?

If you charge more than the available balance in your account, the transaction will be denied. You can obtain your current account balance by logging in to your account from the Ameriflex website (myameriflex.com/ register to get started) or by calling the Interactive Voice Response System (available 24/7) at 888.868.FLEX (3539).

Do I need my receipts?

Please save all your receipts as proof that FSA funds were used to pay for eligible expenses! For certain expenses, Ameriflex may need additional information (including receipts) to verify eligibility of the expense and to comply with IRS rules. That’s why it’s important to save your receipts and fax or mail them promptly if requested. Failure to comply could jeopardize the tax-exempt status of your account and cause the card to be deactivated.

 

ALWAYS KNOW EXACTLY HOW MUCH IS IN YOUR ACCOUNT!

Receive balance alerts straight to your cell phone upon your request. For instructions on how to set it up, visit: myameriflex.com/text-my-balance

Hyde County Schools Enrollment Assistance – Harmony 2021

HELPFUL TIPS:
  • If you are a new employee and unable to log into the online system, please see the Benefits Representative at your location.
  • If you are an existing employee and unable to log into the online system, please contact the Harmony Help Desk at 866-875-4772 between 8:30am and 6:00pm, or speak with your Benefits Representative at your location.
  1. Go to https://harmonyenroll.coloniallife.com
    • Enter your User Name: HYDE and then Last Name and then Last 4 of Social Security Number (HYDESMITH6789)
    • Enter your Password: Four digit Year of Birth and then Last 4 of Social Security Number (19766789)
  2. The screen prompts you to create a NEW password [____________________________].
  3. Choose a security question and enter answer [______________________________________].
  4. Click on ‘I Agree’ and then “Enter My Enrollment”.
  5. 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. 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. The screen shows updated personal information. Verify that the information is correct and make changes if necessary. Click ‘Continue’.
  8. The screen shows ‘My Benefits’. Review your current benefits and make changes/selections for the upcoming plan year.

    • DENTAL (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      • If you have existing coverage and would like to keep it without making changes, click ‘Keep This Benefit’;

      • If you would like to enroll in coverage, or change existing coverage, choose your plan in the Enroll section;

      • If you would like to decline coverage, click ‘Decline/Cancel Coverage’

        Select family members that you wish to cover by clicking ‘Add a Family Member’.

    • VISION (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      • If you have existing coverage and would like to keep it without making changes, click ‘Keep This Benefit’;

      • If you would like to enroll in coverage, or change existing coverage, choose your plan in the Enroll section;

      • If you would like to decline coverage, click ‘Decline/Cancel Coverage’

        Select family members that you wish to cover by clicking ‘Add a Family Member’.

    • HEALTH CARE FSA (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      1. Enter annual amount. MAX $2,750/year

    • DEPENDENT CARE FSA (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      1. Enter annual amount. MAX $5,000/year

    • CANCER ASSIST

      You may enroll online in Cancer Assist coverage.

    • DISABILITY – NCK1000

      You may enroll online in NCK1000 coverage.

    • ACCIDENT 1.0

      You may enroll online in Accident 1.0; however persons over age 64 applying for coverage and employees wishing to purchase an individual policy for their spouse must meet with the Benefits Representative.

    • MEDICAL BRIDGE

      You may enroll online in Medical Bridge coverage.

    • CRITICAL ILLNESS 6000

      You may enroll online in Critical Illness 6000 coverage.

    • TERM LIFE 5000

      You may enroll online in Term Life 5000; however, employees wishing to purchase an individual policy for their spouse should meet with the Benefits Representative.

    • WHOLE LIFE 5000

      You may enroll online in Whole Life 5000; however, employees wishing to purchase an individual policy for their spouse should meet with the Benefits Representative.

  9. Click ‘Finish’.

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

  11. Click ‘Print a copy of your Elections’ to print a copy of your elections. Please do not forget this important step!

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

Hyde County Schools Important Information About Your Enrollment 2021

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: MAY 3, 2021 – MAY 7, 2021

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

  • Enroll/Re-Enroll in Flexible Spending Accounts+ (Medical Reimbursement and Dependent Care).

  • Enroll, change or cancel your Vision Insurance.

  • Enroll, change or cancel your Dental Insurance.

  • Enroll, change or cancel your Telemedicine coverage (DIRECT BILLING ONLY*).**

  • Enroll, change or cancel your Colonial coverage.

+You will need to re-sign for the spending accounts if you want them to continue each year.

*The Telemedicine plan is available by Direct Billing only. No deductions will be taken via payroll deduction.

**Please see the coordinating pages of your benefit booklet/back cover for enrollment instructions and/or contact information for the Telemedicine plan.

 

ACCESS YOUR BENEFITS ONLINE WHENEVER, WHEREVER.

You can view details about your benefits, view educational videos about all of your benefits, download forms, chat with one of our knowledgeable Service Center Specialists, and more on your personalized Pierce Group Benefits website. Our website is also mobile friendly, making it easy to view your plan information on the go!

IMPORTANT NOTE & DISCLAIMER

This is neither an insurance contract nor a Summary Plan Description and only the actual policy provisions will prevail. All information in this booklet including premiums quoted is subject to change. All policy descriptions are for information purposes only. Your actual policies may be different than those in this booklet.

Hyde County Schools Benefits Plan Overview 2021

Pre-Tax Benefits

 Flexible Spending Accounts*

  • Medical Reimbursement Maximum $2,750/year
  • Dependent Care Reimbursement Maximum $5,000/year

*You will need to re-sign for the Spending Accounts if you want them to continue next year.

IF YOU DO NOT RE-SIGN, YOUR CONTRIBUTION WILL STOP EFFECTIVE JUNE 30, 2021.

 Cancer Benefits: Colonial Life

 Medical Bridge Benefits: Colonial Life

 Dental Insurance: Sun Life

 Vision Insurance: Superior

 

 

Post-Tax Benefits

Disability Benefits: Colonial Life

 Accident Benefits: Colonial Life

 Critical Illness Benefits: Colonial Life

 Telemedicine (Direct Billing Only): Call A Doctor Plus

 Life Insurance

  • Term Life Insurance: Colonial Life
  • Whole Life Insurance: Colonial Life

 

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

ENROLLMENT PERIOD: MAY 3, 2021 – MAY 7, 2021

EFFECTIVE DATES: JULY 1, 2021 – JUNE 30, 2022

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• You must work 30 hours or more per week.

 

IMPORTANT FACTS:

• The plan year for Colonial Insurance products, Spending Accounts, Sun Life Dental and Superior Vision lasts from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.

 

• Deductions for Colonial Insurance products, Spending Accounts, Sun Life Dental and Superior Vision will begin August 2021. The Call A Doctor Plus Telemedicine plan is available by Direct Billing only. No deductions will be taken via payroll deduction.

 

• If signing up for any coverage on your spouse and/or children, please have their dates of birth and social security numbers available when meeting with the Benefits Representative.

 

• 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.

 

• Elections made during this enrollment period CANNOT BE CHANGED AFTER THE ENROLLMENT PERIOD unless there is a family status change as defined by the Internal Revenue Code. Examples of a family status change are: marriage, divorce, death of a spouse or child, birth or adoption of a child, termination or commencement of a spouse’s employment, or the transition of spouse’s employment from full-time to part-time, or vice-versa.

 

• Once a family status change has occurred, an employee has 30 days to notify the North Carolina Service Center at 1-888-662-7500 to request a change in elections.

 

• Flexible Spending Account expenses must be incurred during the Plan Year in order to be eligible for reimbursement.

 

• An employee has 90 days after the plan year ends to submit claims for spending account expenses that were incurred during the plan year. Please note that if employment terminates during the plan year, that employee’s plan year ends the day employment ends. The employee has 90 days after the termination date to submit claims.

 

• With Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, the maximum reimbursement you can request is equal to the current account balance in your Dependent Care account. You cannot be reimbursed more than has actually been deducted from your pay.

 

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

 

• The Colonial Cancer plan and the Health Screening Rider on the Colonial Accident and Colonial Medical Bridge plan have a 30-day waiting period for new enrollees. Coverage, therefore, will not begin until July 31, 2021.

 

• Additionally, some policies may include a pre-existing condition clause. Please read your policy carefully for full details.

 

• 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.

 

• An employee taking a leave of absence, other than under the Family & Medical Leave Act, may not be eligible to re-enter the Flexible Benefits Program until the next plan year. Please contact your Benefit Administrator for more information.

Ashe County Schools Forms & Links 2021

Colonial Life

Dental

Vision

Telemedicine

Legal

Flexible Spending Accounts

Ashe County Schools The FSAStore 2021

FLEX SPENDING WITH ZERO GUESSWORK

Pierce Group Benefits partners with the FSA Store to provide one convenient location for all your FSA-eligible purchases. Through our partnership, Pierce Group Benefits and FSA Store can help you shop for FSA eligible items and answer the many questions that come along with having a Flexible Spending Account.

 

  • – The largest selection of guaranteed FSA-eligible products
  • – 24/7 support, FREE shipping on orders over $50
  • – Are your health needs eligible? Easily check with our expansive Eligibility List
  • – Need an Rx? We’ll work with you to make getting one easier
  • – Learning Center – Get daily money-saving info
  • – Use your FSA Card or any major credit card

 

Accessing FSA Store is easy. Simply visit FSAstore.com/PGBFL for the largest selection of guaranteed FSA-eligible products with zero guesswork. Get $20 off $200+ with code PGBF20. One use per customer.

Accessing the FSAStore is easy. Simply visit www.FSAStore.com!

Ashe County Schools Important FSA Information 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I check my account balance?

You can check your real-time balance online by logging into MyAmeriflex or through the MyAmeriflex Mobile App. Ameriflex also provides 24/7 access to automated account information via telephone. Call 888.868.FLEX (3539) and follow the prompts to listen to balance and transaction information for your account.

How do I order a new card?

You can request a free replacement card online through your Ameriflex account or through the MyAmeriflex Mobile App.

What happens if I don’t use my FSA account balance by the end the year?

By law, employers are not allowed to return leftover money to participants. Furthermore, funds are forfeited if you leave your employer.

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.

How do these programs save me money on taxes?

Since the accounts are tax-advantaged, you get to leverage pre-tax payroll deductions — increasing your take-home pay and saving you money on everyday expenses. In many cases, you can experience savings of up to 40% on expenses eligible under your employer-sponsored plan.

Can I change my annual election amount?

FSA elections are irrevocable and cannot be changed during the period of coverage unless there is a permitted change in election event, such as a change in marital status, birth or adoption of a child, change in an employment status, etc. The event and contribution change must coincide.

How can I change my reimbursement setting to add direct deposit?

To set up direct deposit, simply login to MyAmeriflex, select reimbursement settings under the my account tab, then enter your banking information. We also offer a paper direct deposit form that can be mailed, faxed, or emailed to Ameriflex.

Will pre-taxing have an impact on Social Security benefits?

Reductions in your taxable pay may lead to a reduction in Social Security benefits; however, for most employees, the reduction in Social Security benefits is insignificant when compared to the value of paying lower taxes now.

Tax Credits vs. Dependent Care Spending Accounts

If you participate in a Dependent Care Spending Account, you cannot claim credits on your income tax return for the same expenses. Also, any amount reimbursed under this plan will reduce the amount of other dependent care expenses that you can claim for purposes of tax credits. Before you enroll in a Dependent Day Care Account, evaluate whether the federal income tax credit or the Dependent Care Spending Account is best for you.

ONE-TIME CLAIM FOR DEPENDENT CARE SERVICES

Ameriflex makes it easy to get reimbursed automatically from your account as your funds build up during the year. If you’re paying for childcare or elderly care each month, you can avoid submitting a manual claim every month to get reimbursed for expenses you paid out of pocket. All you have to do is submit one Claim Form for the entire year that shows the date range for which childcare/eldercare services will be provided, along with a signature from the service provider on the designated line of the form. As long as the form is signed by the provider, no receipt is needed. Once the recurring claim has been processed, Ameriflex will automatically reimburse you every month with a check or direct deposit as funds in your Dependent Care Account become available.

Ashe County Schools Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 2021

You made a great decision by enrolling in a flexible spending account (FSA) and/or dependent care account (DCA)! Now that you’ve gotten the difficult decisions out of the way, use this packet to learn how to best take advantage of your account. Let’s get started!

 

HOW YOUR FSA WORKS

Your FSA is a spending account that can be used to pay for a variety of healthcare expenses.

 

TWO GREAT PERKS COME WITH YOUR FSA:

  1. You will have access to your entire election on the first day of the plan year.

  2. 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. That means you are increasing your take-home pay simply by participating!

 

WHAT CAN I SPEND MY FSA FUNDS ON?

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

  • Copays, deductibles, and other payments you are responsible for under your health plan.

  • Routine exams, dental care, prescription drugs, eye care, and hearing aids.

  • Prescription glasses and sunglasses.

  • Certain over-the-counter (OTC) healthcare expenses such as Band-aids, medicine, First Aid supplies, etc. Note: OTC medicines require a doctor’s prescription to be eligible.

  • Diabetic equipment and supplies, durable medical equipment, and qualified medical products or services provided by a doctor.

 

HOW YOUR DCA WORKS

Your DCA is a spending account that can be used to pay for services like daycare, nursery school, and elder care. By simply participating in a DCA, you get to experience benefits like:

  1. A higher take-home pay thanks to your pre-tax payroll deductions

  2. Savings on daycare and other dependent care services you’re already paying for

  3. Easy-to-use MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard to make purchases

 

WHAT CAN I SPEND MY DCA FUNDS ON?

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

  • Daycare

  • Custodial care for dependent adults

  • Summer day camp

  • Nanny service

  • Before and after school programs

  • Pre-school

  • Nursery school

 

GETTING STARTED CHECKLIST

Use this checklist to take full advantage of all the great resources made available to you through your Flexible Spending Account and/or Dependent Care Account.

  1. Set Up Your MyAmeriflex Account

    MyAmeriflex is where you’ll have real-time access to all of your account information, including your current balance, transaction history, payment status, and more. To register your account, visit myameriflex.com, select “Login to your account,” and click “Participants.” Then click the “New User” link to get started. You will be asked to enter an Employee ID, which will be your Social Security number with no dashes or spaces, as well as a Registration ID, which will either be your Ameriflex Debit Mastercard number or Employer ID. If you don’t know your Employer ID, please reach out to your HR representative or contact the Ameriflex Participants Services team at 888.868.FLEX (3539).

  2. Download Mobile App

    The MyAmeriflex App lets you access and manage your account anywhere you go, 24/7. It puts all of the great features of the MyAmeriflex Portal right at your fingertips. You can download the app on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

  3. Register for Complimentary ID Theft Protection

    Ameriflex is pleased to offer our cardholders complimentary access to Mastercard’s comprehensive Identity Theft Protection program*, powered by CSID®. You can rest assured knowing that if your MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard (or any other debit/credit cards you choose to register!) gets misplaced or stolen, you can utilize Mastercard’s industry-leading ID theft protection and restoration services for everything you may need. To register, visit myameriflex.com/IDtheftprotection.

  4. Use Your Card

    You will receive a MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard that can be used to make eligible purchases. Your card will be mailed within 7-10 business days after your enrollment is processed by Ameriflex.

  5. Enroll for Direct Deposit

    By enrolling for direct deposit, getting reimbursed is easier and faster anytime you need to pay for an eligible expenses out of pocket. Login to MyAmeriflex to set up direct deposit.

  6. Start Spending

    You’re ready to make purchases! Be sure to hang on to your receipts anytime you make a purchase. Login to MyAmeriflex for a full list of eligible expenses.

 

The “Use It or Lose It” 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 it or lose it” 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.

 

HOW DO I PAY FOR ELIGIBLE EXPENSES?

Using Your MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard®

The easiest way to pay for eligible expenses is to use your MyAmeriflex Debit Mastercard®, which provides you with access to your FSA accounts (healthcare or dependent care) with a single card. The MyAmeriflex Card works just like a regular debit card, but with three important differences:

  • Its use is limited to specific merchants* and to expenses deemed eligible by your plan.

  • You cannot use your MyAmeriflex Card at an ATM or to obtain “cash back” when making a purchase.

  • When using the card at self-service merchant terminals, you may select the ‘credit’ option to sign for your purchase, if offered a choice. If you are prompted to enter a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and do not have it, ask the provider to process the transaction so that you may sign the receipt. (To set up a PIN, register your account online at myameriflex.com/register.)

Use of the MyAmeriflex Card is limited to day care providers; medical care providers such as hospitals, doctors’ offices, optometrists, dentist, orthodontists, pharmacies, or other merchants providing prescription and overthe- counter eligible products. Your card cannot be used at non-qualified businesses such as gas stations, retailers, convenience stores, etc.

 

Filing A Manual Claim

If you do not use your MyAmeriflex Card to pay for an eligible expense, you can also pay for the expenses out-ofpocket and then get reimbursed from your FSA by filing a manual claim. To file a manual claim, simply complete the Claim Form (myameriflex.com/claim-form) and send it to Ameriflex along with verification of the claim. Acceptable forms of verification include itemized receipts and the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance carrier.

Claims can be submitted through the following methods:

 

Other Helpful Information

What if there’s not enough money in my account?

If you charge more than the available balance in your account, the transaction will be denied. You can obtain your current account balance by logging in to your account from the Ameriflex website (myameriflex.com/ register to get started) or by calling the Interactive Voice Response System (available 24/7) at 888.868.FLEX (3539).

Do I need my receipts?

Please save all your receipts as proof that FSA funds were used to pay for eligible expenses! For certain expenses, Ameriflex may need additional information (including receipts) to verify eligibility of the expense and to comply with IRS rules. That’s why it’s important to save your receipts and fax or mail them promptly if requested. Failure to comply could jeopardize the tax-exempt status of your account and cause the card to be deactivated.

 

ALWAYS KNOW EXACTLY HOW MUCH IS IN YOUR ACCOUNT!

Receive balance alerts straight to your cell phone upon your request. For instructions on how to set it up, visit: myameriflex.com/text-my-balance.

Ashe County Schools Enrollment Assistance – Harmony 2021

HELPFUL TIPS:
  • If you are a new employee and unable to log into the online system, please see the Benefits Representative at your location.
  • If you are an existing employee and unable to log into the online system, please contact the Harmony Help Desk at 866-875-4772 between 8:30am and 6:00pm, or speak with your Benefits Representative at your location.
  1. Go to https://harmonyenroll.coloniallife.com
    • Enter your User Name: ASHECS and then Last Name and then Last 4 of Social Security Number (ASHECSSMITH6789)
    • Enter your Password: Four digit Year of Birth and then Last 4 of Social Security Number (19766789)
  2. The screen prompts you to create a NEW password [____________________________].
  3. Choose a security question and enter answer [______________________________________].
  4. Click on ‘I Agree’ and then “Enter My Enrollment”.
  5. 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. 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. The screen shows updated personal information. Verify that the information is correct and make changes if necessary. Click ‘Continue’.
  8. The screen shows ‘My Benefits’. Review your current benefits and make changes/selections for the upcoming plan year.

    • DENTAL (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      1. If you have existing coverage and would like to keep it without making changes, click ‘Keep This Benefit’;

      2. If you would like to enroll in coverage, or change existing coverage, choose your plan in the Enroll section;

      3. If you would like to decline coverage, click ‘Decline/Cancel Coverage’

        Select family members that you wish to cover by clicking ‘Add a Family Member’.

    • VISION* (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      1. If you have existing coverage and would like to keep it without making changes, click ‘Keep This Benefit’;

      2. If you would like to enroll in coverage, or change existing coverage, choose your plan in the Enroll section;

      3. If you would like to decline coverage, click ‘Decline/Cancel Coverage’

        Select family members that you wish to cover by clicking ‘Add a Family Member’.

    • GROUP TERM LIFE* (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      1. If you have existing coverage and would like to keep it without making changes, click ‘Keep This Benefit’;

      2. If you would like to enroll in coverage, or change existing coverage, choose your plan in the Enroll section;

      3. If you would like to decline coverage, click ‘Decline/Cancel Coverage’

        Select family members that you wish to cover by clicking ‘Add a Family Member’.

    • HEALTH CARE FSA* (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      1. Enter annual amount. MAX $2,750/year

    • DEPENDENT CARE FSA* (Choose one of the options and click ‘Save & Continue’):

      1. Enter annual amount. MAX $5,000/year

    • LEGAL PLAN

      You may enroll online in Legal coverage.

    • CANCER ASSIST

      You may enroll online in Cancer Assist coverage.

    • DISABILITY – NCK1000

      You may enroll online in NCK1000 coverage.

    • ACCIDENT 1.0

      You may enroll online in Accident 1.0; however persons over age 64 applying for coverage and employees wishing to purchase an individual policy for their spouse must meet with the Benefits Representative.

    • MEDICAL BRIDGE

      You may enroll online in Medical Bridge coverage.

    • CRITICAL ILLNESS 6000

      You may enroll online in Critical Illness 6000 coverage.

    • TERM LIFE 5000

      You may enroll online in Term Life 5000; however, employees wishing to purchase an individual policy for their spouse should meet with the Benefits Representative.

    • WHOLE LIFE 5000

      You may enroll online in Whole Life 5000; however, employees wishing to purchase an individual policy for their spouse should meet with the Benefits Representative.

  9. Click ‘Finish’.

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

  11. Click ‘Print a copy of your Elections’ to print a copy of your elections. Please do not forget this important step!

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