Use of Debit and Credit Cards by Cafeteria Plans Approved

The Internal Revenue Service has ruled for the first time that properly substantiated employer-provided medical expense reimbursements made through debit or credit cards under a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or health care flexible spending account (HCFSA) are excludable from gross income under Section 105(b) (Rev. Rul. 2003-43). The use of debit or credit cards by HRAs and HCFSAs will greatly streamline the reimbursement process and will eliminate employees' out of pocket expenses at the point of service - making these programs much more appealing to employees.

13 minute read September 01, 2003 at 01:18 PM
By
Kara A. Getz and Ruth M. Wimer
Use of Debit and Credit Cards by Cafeteria Plans Approved

The Internal Revenue Service has ruled for the first time that properly substantiated employer-provided medical expense reimbursements made through debit or credit cards under a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or health care flexible spending account (HCFSA) are excludable from gross income under Section 105(b) (Rev.

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