Q&A: Participants: Eligible Expenses
« BackQuestion: Can credit card slips or canceled checks be used as documentation for an FSA claim?
Answer:
Unfortunately, no.
IRS rules require FSA claims to be supported by a written statement from an independent third party provider showing the expense has been incurred and the amount of the expense. Such a statement also should show when, for whom, and for what purpose the expense was incurred.
Cancelled checks and VISA slips do not contain the needed information, and fail to meet the requirement of being from the independent service provider.
Examples of acceptable provider statements are a bill, insurance company explanation of benefits, or written verification from the provider.
Interestingly, the expense does not have to have been paid, but merely incurred, to be eligible for reimbursement. You can pay the expense with funds derived from the FSA reimbursement.
This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. It is provided with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.
Some portions of an answer may reflect the specific administrative practices of our firm, and may not be universally applicable to all flexible benefit plans.
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