Using FSA for revisional surgery?

[jskasick]

My husband just had his open enrollment for his employer. We found that we could elect FSA and get a debit card at the time and have all the funds available.

What seemed like it was not an option for me, suddenly seems within reach. I found that you can use the money for the coinsurance from the insurance, airfare to the provider, and hotel (up to $50 per night).

We elected 2k because that about meets my coinsurance and I have met most of it already. So it should leave just enough for me to get there and the few days in the hotel I need for it.

My question: has anyone done this? Has anyone successfully used FSA funds to fund their surgery? Any advice?

[Deleted]

I always thought that those accounts are for medical expenses not covered by insurance, so I don't know if you could use it for the hotel, travel, etc. I know you can use it for co-pays. I've used it for things like glasses, co-pays for medicines. I did use my flexible spending account for part of my plastic surgery that wasn't covered by insurance.

I would just check to make sure you can use it for the things you want to use them for.

[kath]

Like Janet said, you should double check about this.
Just because hotel and travel MIGHT be tax deductible if related to surgery, FSA money may not be allowed.

Medical tax deductions only apply if they exceed a percentage of your adjusted gross, FSA is pre-tax dollars and have much stricter rules.

I would hate for you to do this and then not be reimbursed and in worse financial shape than before.

If it works for you, it sounds like a good option.

[Deleted]

Also with FSAs, confirm if there is a "use it or lose it" feature - meaning if you don't use the money in the account by the end of the year, you lose it (it doesn't carry over to the next year). That's the way mine works.

Definitely a great way to pay for surgery if its not covered by insurance.