1913 W South Blvd. Troy, MI 48098
Posted 10/16/2020
Dr. Kelley feels that every patient who visits his Troy office should be able to get the best dental care possible. That goes for advanced general dentistry and preventative care as well as the latest in cosmetic dentistry and aesthetic enhancement.
Paying for dental treatments can be a hurdle for many people, however. That's why we accept different payment methods. One helpful option for many people is a flex spending account, also known as an FSA. Let's look at those right now.
What is a flexible spending account (FSA)?
Also known as flexible spending arrangements and reimbursement accounts, FSAs are tax-advantaged accounts that an employee can set up through his or her employer. The specified amount of the employee's wages is placed into this FSA prior to taxes being withdrawn. The money that is set aside is used to reimburse the employee for certain medical and dental expenses.
How do flexible spending accounts (FSAs) work?
Sign ups for an FSA are usually held prior to the beginning of the coming year, taking effect at the beginning of the new year. Sometimes an employee can qualify for an FSA before the new year begins if certain conditions are met, those of which will be unique to your FSA provider. There is a cap on FSAs of $2,500 per year.
When seeking reimbursement for dental care, certain documentation will be required. We will work closely with you to make sure you receive what is needed in order to receive reimbursement as quickly as possible and without any hassles.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Eligible Dental Treatments
The following treatments are eligible for coverage if you have an FSA:
- Sleep Apnea Therapy
- Routine cleanings and checkups
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental x-rays
- Dental fillings
- Inlays and onlays
- Dental crowns
- Tooth extractions
- Implant dentistry
- Orthodontics
Certain at-home dental treatments or suggested therapies are also covered by FSAs. We encourage you to check with you provider beforehand to ensure that the treatment you are considering is covered or if it may be covered should certain conditions be met.
Dental Treatments NOT Covered by Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
In general, all purely cosmetic treatments are not covered by FSAs. This includes teeth whitening (in-office and at-home), porcelain veneers, tooth bonding, or comprehensive smile makeovers. These are not necessary for improving dental health, and so they are not eligible.
Advantages of Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
If planned right, an FSA can potentially save patients money. For one, the set aside amount brings down your income when you file your taxes, which means that you will owe the government less money, which is a potential savings. In addition, it's ideal for long-term planning with regard to dental treatments.
Some flexible spending account have a rollover from year to year as well, which is great when a patient does not use up all of the $2,500. Not all FSAs are the same, so be sure to check what your plan does with regard to unused money at the end of the year.
Other Payment Options to Keep In Mind
If you are considering a cosmetic treatment or if you do not feel that an FSA is right for you, there are other options to consider. Monthly financing plans are quite popular, dividing up the total cost of care into affordable installments. These operate much like a loan or a credit card.
During your visit, we will be more than happy to go over all of your options for payment so that you can make the best choices based on your dental care needs and financial situation.
Schedule a Consultation for Advanced Dental Care
For more information about your many options available to pay for dental care, we encourage you to contact our office today. During your visit, we will be sure to provide you with all of the information that you need to enhance your dental health as well as the look of your smile.