The Daily Bulletin Archive

Open enrollment for the 2008 NYS Flex Spending Account is Monday, September 24, through Friday, November 1. The account offers two benefits, the Health Care Spending Account (HCSAccount) and the Dependent Care Advantage Account (DCAAccount). A brochure describing these benefits was distributed with the September 19 paychecks.

The HCSAccount allows employees to set aside from $100 to $4,000 annually in pretax salary to pay for health-related expenses not reimbursed by insurance. Over-the-counter (OTC) drug expenses including allergy remedies, antacids, cold medicines, and pain relievers are also reimbursable.

The DCAAccount allows employees to set aside up to $5,000 annually for child care, elder care, or other dependent care expenses on a pre-tax basis. The DCAAccount employer contribution expired for most bargaining units earlier this year with the expiration of their collective bargaining agreements. The future availability of the employer contribution depends on the outcome of the current negotiations. Employees represented by NYSCOPA are eligible for the employer contribution up to $700 as a result of their recently ratified contract.

Participants currently enrolled in the HCSAccount or DCAAccount must re-enroll to continue benefits in 2008. Re-enrollment instructions will be sent directly from the Fringe Benefits Management Company.

Paperless enrollment is quick, easy, and secure. Apply online at www.flexspend.state.ny.us or call the Flex Spending Account hotline at (800) 358-7202.

The November 16 deadline for 2008 enrollment will be strictly enforced. Be sure to enroll by November 16.

Call the Human Resource Management Office at ext. 4821 with questions.