HCRA at-a-Glance

Health Care Reimbursement Account

Q. What can I use it for?

A. Your portion of eligible medical, dental and vision expenses.

Q. What are some examples of eligible expenses?

A. Copayments, deductibles, and other expenses not covered or partially covered by a health or dental plan (such as acupuncture, laser eye surgery, and orthodontia).

Q. What are some examples of expenses that are not eligible for reimbursement?

A. Medicare premiums, contributions for an employer-sponsored health plan, cosmetic surgery, expenses associated with long-term care, life or accident insurance.

Q. How do I enroll?

A. During open enrollment, you may elect to participate in HCRA for the new Plan Year logging onto the Benefits Center website, or calling toll-free 1-866-325-2345 Benefits Resource Line to make your election. Each Plan Year is January 1 - December 31. If you are a newly hired employee, you must enroll during your eligibility period.

Q. How do I make contributions?

A. Deductions are made from your biweekly paycheck on a before-tax basis.

Q. How much can I contribute for the year?

A. Up to $5,000 per year.

Q. How do I access my account?

A. Once you have incurred an eligible expense, obtain a reimbursement request form from the Benefits Center at https://www.benefitsweb.com/countyoforange.html or call SHPS Spending Accounts at 1-800-807-8847, press 1. Complete the form and attach the appropriate proof of payment. Proof of payment includes an explanation of benefits (EOB) form you receive from your health plan administrator. Fax or mail the form, along with proof of payment, to SHPS Spending Accounts. Fax to 1-866-643-2219 or mail to P.O. Box 34700 Louisville, KY 40232.

Q. What happens to the money left in my account?

A. The IRS requires that you forfeit any unused money left in the account at the end of the year. Money forfeited is returned to the employer. This is called the "use it or lose it" rule.