FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS WITH SMILE DENTAL STUDIO

What is FSA and how to use it

Today, many employers offer a flexible spending account (FSA) as part of their benefits packages. Employees can use these funds to set aside money from each paycheck. FSAs cover most out-of-pocket health care expenses, including dental treatments.
Smile Dental Studio in Phoenix and the surrounding area accepts FSAs. Our team works with your employer to confirm coverage. If you are confused about using your FSA, we can help you. Do not let your FSA expire.

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How FSAs Work

FSAs can help bridge the gap left by other health insurance plans. They allow employees to use tax-free funds to cover out-of-pocket health care expenses, and they sometimes replace a traditional employer health insurance plan.
Employees can also use their FSA to supplement a marketplace plan. In other cases, the FSA may supplement an employer-sponsored health care plan. Either way, the FSA has one central purpose: to cover out-of-pocket expenses.
Employees contribute a limited amount of money to their FSA each year. These funds are taken out of the paycheck before taxable income is calculated. Afterward, employees have one year to use their funds on approved health care expenses. FSA funds can apply toward deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Some prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are covered. Employees can even pay for medical devices like crutches using their FSA.

PROS

Tax savings represent the main benefit of an FSA. Since the funds are removed before taxes, employees have a lower taxable income. Some employees find that an FSA increases their take-home pay. The funds in an FSA are available at all times, with few restrictions. Most FSAs are linked to a debit card for added convenience. Patients can then use their FSA debit card at their doctor, dentist, or pharmacy. Patients usually do not need pre-approval or to do other paperwork.

CONS

Employees can only contribute a certain amount of money each year. For most employees, the limit is $2,750 per year. Spouses can also contribute an equal amount to their own FSA. Additionally, FSA funds are tied to an employer. If an employee changes jobs, they cannot keep their current FSA.
FSAs funds are "use it or lose it." At the end of the year, employees can roll over up to $500. The remaining unused funds are forfeited to the employer. Employees must keep an eye on their FSA balance. It's up to each patient to ensure that they use their funds before they expire.

How to Use FSA Funds

Patients can use their FSA to cover most dental expenses, including routine care. But not all procedures and treatments are eligible. Before scheduling a dental procedure, patients should talk to their employer and plan provider. Cosmetic procedures, including cosmetic orthodontics, are usually not covered under an FSA. However, if a patient needs orthodontics for medical purposes, they might be allowed to use their FSA funds. Our dental team can work with your plan provider to determine coverage.

How to Save Money With an FSA

During the enrollment period, employees determine how much money they plan to save. Choosing the FSA budget can be tricky. If an employee underestimates how much money they need, they might lose out on tax savings. If they overestimate, they may lose the money. The exact amount one needs will depend on their family's unique circumstances.
After enrollment, the money is deducted from each paycheck. Employees have until March 15 of the following year to use their funds. Keep in mind that unused funds will expire. It's the employee's responsibility to use their funds before the deadline.

FSAs cover a wide range of dental services, including:

Routine cleanings

Filling, sealants, and extractions

Diagnostic and preventive care

Gum disease treatment

Oral surgery

Crowns, bridges, and dentures

What are flexible spending accounts?
Your employer may offer a flexible spending account (FSA) as part of your benefits package. With an FSA, you can set aside money from each paycheck for health care expenses. These funds are not taxed, and you can withdraw the funds as needed. You can decide how much you want to contribute each year.
How much money can I put in my flexible spending account?
Maximum annual contributions can vary. If you have a medical FSA, your yearly maximum is $2,750. With a dependent care FSA, the yearly maximum is $5,000. Your employer can provide more details about their policies.
Where can I use the money in my flexible spending account?
Most employers use their FSA to pay for expenses not covered by their health insurance policy. The funds can apply toward out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, coinsurance, and copays. You might also use your FSA for dental, orthodontic, and vision care.
Does my money roll over?
You can roll over up to $500 from one year into the next. However, the remaining money will be forfeited to your employer at the end of the year. Patients should keep an eye on their FSA balance and use their funds before the year's end.
What happens to the money in my flexible spending account if I change jobs?
Unlike HSAs, FSAs are owned by employers. If you leave your current employer, you can't take the funds with you. Instead, you must use up your funds before your employment is terminated. Otherwise, you forfeit the remaining balance to your employer.