As the year comes to a close, we are lucky to be surrounded by friends, family, and celebrations, as we enjoy the holidays and welcome the new year. While you may be spending money on gifts, travel, hosting guests, and more, this time of year can feel like an endless to-do (and to-buy) list.
With all of the excitement that the season brings, we can sometimes get distracted, forgetting some major perks that come at the year’s end. Thanks to your friends at Craig & Streight, we are here to remind you of a way you can better yourself and save money before the new year.
What is a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?
A Flexible Spending Account (or FSA) is an account that you can put money into, which you can use later for certain out-of-pocket, health-related costs. You do not pay taxes on this money, and it is sometimes an advantage to a health plan through your employer.
The max amount of money that can be in your FSA per year is $2550; however, if you are married and your spouse works and also has an FSA account, he or she can also put up to $2550 into their FSA.
To learn more about FSAs, visit healthcare.gov. If you are interested in setting up an FSA with your healthcare plan, talk to your employer today to learn more about the benefits.
If you have an FSA currently and you are looking for ways to take advantage of it before year’s end, keep reading!
How do I take advantage of my FSA before the end of the year?
As you know, your FSA follows the rule “use it or lose it.” If the end of the year rolls around and there is no “grace period” instated by your employer, you may lose all the funds from the year!
At Craig & Streight, we don’t want you to let that money go to waste. Since it is the end of the year and you have saved up, this is the time to treat yourself, or a family member, to a better smile.
Our skilled administrative staff will work with you to determine what services are not covered by your insurance and, therefore, what you can apply your FSA funds towards.
What orthodontic services can I obtain with my FSA?
Depending upon what your (or your dependent’s) particular orthodontic needs are, there are an array of services we can provide.
One service people particularly like to use with their FSA is Invisalign. Although many people think that they do not qualify for Invisalign, we are finding that the more advanced the technology becomes, the more patients are finding orthodontic solutions with Invisalign!
Invisalign, or the “clear” braces, is great for teens to adults, who are looking for a more subtle way to straighten their smile. Invisalign is also removable, making it easier for patients to eat, drink, and also clean their teeth through the day.
What better way to start the new year than taking steps to a more beautiful smile?
Take Action Today!
Ready to see how your FSA can benefit your smile? Contact us today. Remember, most FSAs expire on the first of the year! Let’s talk about your options for using your FSA funds today.
As your Oklahoma City-area orthodontists, Drs. Craig and Streight and our staff look forward to finding a solution that is best for your lifestyle and budget. Let’s start the new year off with an orthodontic plan that is right for you.