Over-the-Counter Expense Change

The health care reform legislation recently passed by Congress changes the list of eligible over-the-counter items that can be reimbursed through a Health Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Effective January 1, 2011, over-the-counter drugs and medications no longer qualify as an eligible expense and will not be reimbursed unless you have a written prescription from your physician. The prescription must be dated prior to the purchase.  This includes aspirin, ibuprofen, acetametaphine, allergy medications, cold and flu medications, creams and other medications.  Over-the-counter items that are not considered drugs and medications that remain eligible are contact solutions and Band-Aids.

Full Issue: No. 62 - April 2011

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