Apparently, not many members take advantage of the "Flexible Health and Wellness Spending Program". Slightly more than one quarter of USFA members per year have submitted claims for reimbursement since this program started in 2007.
This round of negations has increased funds available in this program from $150 to $500 per year. These funds can be carried forward for one year only. If the money is not spent it reverts to the employer. Approximately 70% of the funds allocated have been forfeited.
This benefit can be used for either extending your existing health coverage (non-taxable) or as a means to offset expenses you incur for various wellness initiatives (taxable). It offers a simple way for many of you to be reimbursed for more health related expenses, especially if family members are buying glasses or orthodontics, or to help pay for wellness expenses such as a fitness club membership or fitness equipment.
For health coverage, fill out your Blue Cross Claim as usual. When you are reimbursed, detach and save the explanation of benefits, which enumerates any benefits denied where you have exceeded the available benefit. Simply attach these explanations of benefits with the Health Spending Account Claim Form, and submit it to Blue Cross. Of course, you can also submit receipts for reimbursement.
Taking advantage of this benefit for wellness expenses is a little more complicated. You must choose to use the program this way. Each spring members are sent information about making this choice.
With the significant increase of this benefit, it is very important that members consider how best to take make use of it.
If you have questions about this or other negotiated benefits, contact the USFA office at 966-5609 or usfa@usaskfaculty.ca.