HSA Tag

Many employee benefits are subject to annual dollar limits that are periodically updated for inflation by the IRS. The following commonly offered employee benefits are subject to these limits:

• High deductible health plans (HDHPs) and health savings accounts (HSAs); • Health flexible spending accounts (FSAs); • 401(k) plans; and • Transportation fringe benefit plans. The IRS typically announces the dollar limits that will apply for the next calendar year well in advance of the beginning of that year. This gives employers time to update their plan designs and make sure their plan administration will be consistent with the new limits.

Know Your Benefits HeaderOn March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law. In addition to providing direct financial assistance to Americans, the CARES Act repeals the Medicine Cabinet Tax provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), expanding the list of qualifying expenses that can be purchased with health savings accounts (HSAs).

CARES Act and Qualifying Medical Expenses

Know Your Benefits HeaderOn March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law.

In addition to providing direct financial assistance to Americans, the CARES Act repeals the Medicine Cabinet Tax provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), expanding the list of qualifying expenses that can be reimbursed with health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs).

CARES Act and Qualifying Medical Expenses

The Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services and the Treasury (Departments) have provided answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding health coverage issues related to COVID-19, including implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

These new laws require health plans and issuers to cover certain items and services related to the diagnosis of COVID-19 without imposing any cost- sharing requirements (including deductibles, copayments and coinsurance) or prior authorization or other medical management requirements. According to the Departments’ FAQs, health plans and issuers must provide notice of the changes to plan participants as soon as reasonably practicable.