Guide to Limited Purpose FSA
This document explains how a Limited Purpose Flexible Spending Account (LPFSA) works, helping employees save pre-tax dollars on vision and dental expenses.
Many employers offer this benefit to help you set aside pre-tax dollars for you and your family’s healthcare. Contributing to both a Health Savings Account (HSA) and a Limited Purpose Flexible Spending Account (LPFSA) takes savings to the next level. Sometimes referred to as the “HSA-Compatible” FSA, an LPFSA is a tax-advantaged account you can use to pay for eligible vision and dental services. Unlike a Medical FSA, you can contribute pre- tax dollars to both an LPFSA and an HSA in the same plan year. Limited Purpose FSA Save on vision & dental expenses LPFSA: HSA: Contribution limits1 $3,300 $4,300 (individuals) $8,550 (families) How it works The funds are deducted directly from your payroll, and you can save up to 35%2 on vision and dental expenses when you pay with them. Used alongside your High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and HSA, it’s a smart and convenient way to take care of your health and finances. Use your LPFSA to pay for eligible vision and dental expenses such as dental procedures, teeth cleanings, vision exams, prescription glasses. Eligible Expenses You can only enroll and set your annual election amount during your employer’s open enrollment, or on account of a qualifying life event. Enrollment Timeframe If you are eligible for your employer’s benefits program, you are eligible to enroll in an FSA. You will need to re- enroll each year. Employee Eligibility “ “ use it lose it? or You may have heard this about the FSA. While the funds do eventually expire, don’t let it deter you from enrolling! Here are some pro tips: Election amount: Don’t default to contributing the maximum amount. Take time to assess how much you spent last year and anticipate what you might need this coming year. Grace period & carryover: Check if your employer offers one of these options to allow you to incur expenses up to 2.5 months after the plan year ends or carry up to $660 into the new plan year. Run-out period: Not to be confused with the “grace period,” your employer may also offer this time for you to submit claims for expenses after the plan year ends, for expenses incurred during the plan year. Knowing these plan options and key dates will make it easier to get the most out of your FSA, and ensure you are not left with forfeited dollars. livelyme.com | 1.888.576.4837 | support@livelyme.com
livelyme.com | 1.888.576.4837 | support@livelyme.com LPFSA + HSA The LPSFA and the HSA uniquely complement each other because one is a short-term spending account and the other is a long-term saving account. By enrolling in both simultaneously, you have the opportunity to maximize HSA contributions while reducing out-of- pocket expenses by paying with LPFSA funds. No other healthcare accounts can be paired like this. LPFSAs are a specific type of FSA that can be used to pay for eligible vision and dental expenses with pre- tax dollars. Check the full list at livelyme.com/whats-eligible. Like Medical FSAs, LPFSAs are employer- owned accounts and funds expire at the end of the plan year. Funds are elected annually and available on day 1 of the plan. While you can have an LPFSA without also having an HSA, the LPFSA is specifically designed to pair with an HSA so you can save and spend tax-free in parallel. Vision & Dental FSA Rules Apply HSA-Compatible TAX “When should I enroll in an LPFSA?” “What if I have more questions?” The rule of thumb is to only enroll in an LPFSA if you also plan to contribute the annual maximum to your HSA in the same tax year. By paying for eligible vision and dental expenses with LPFSA funds first, you give your HSA funds a chance to grow. [1] Annual contribution limits are set by the IRS each year. Contributions may vary by employer. Refer to your plan documents for additional considerations, such as catch-up contributions (55+) and employer contributions or matching. [2] Assuming combined state and federal income taxes of 35% of more. The content presented in this document is for informational purposes only, and is not, and must not be considered investment, legal, accounting, or financial planning advice, nor a recommendation as to a specific course of action. Your employer’s benefits plan documents should serve as the source of truth. You can also visit livelyme.com/blog or contact Lively Support to learn more about using your healthcare accounts.
