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Human Resource Services

  1. Whitworth University
  2. Human Resource Services
  3. Benefits
  4. Reimbursement Accounts

Reimbursement Accounts

Flexible Spending Account

If you have predictable healthcare or dependent care expenses for the year, the Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) may be a good way for you to pay for these expenses using tax-free dollars.

You can choose each plan year to defer some of your pay into one or both FSAs before federal, Social Security (FICA), Medicare or other taxes are withheld. By reducing your taxable pay, you end up paying less tax. Then, as you incur eligible expenses and have to pay for some or all expenses out of pocket, you can reimburse yourself for your share of the expense. The money goes into your account untaxed, and remains untaxed after you receive it. 

If you have both the HRA and add and FSA account, to spend your FSA balance use the issued debit card to pay for bills or eligible expenses. Filing a claim will deduct the HRA first, then the FSA.

Health Reimbursement Arrangement

Whitworth contributes funds to your HRA in June of each plan year (maximum accrual limits apply). If you are a new employee, you will receive your contribution the first of the month following your date of hire.

You and any family members covered under the university medical plan can use the HRA funds to cover your out of pocket medical expenses like copays, prescription drugs, deductibles and co-insurances, as well as dental and vision expenses. 

To get reimbursed, you must submit an Explanation of Benefits and/or itemized invoice/receipt to HealthEquity.

  • Whitworth contribution: $1,000 for an individual only; $2,000 for an individual + one or more family members.
    • Maximum accrual limit is $2,000 for an individual only; $4,000 for an individual + one or more family members.
    • Enrollment in the HRA is automatic.

Health Savings Plan

Whitworth offers enrollment in an HSA plan only if you have the high deductible medical plan (HDHP) through Aetna. It is a health savings retirement plan with the option to invest your funds after a $2,000 balance. The balance stays with you in your account whether you switch back to a non-HSA-eligible plan or leave employment. This plan can be used for medical expenses and other items found on the IRS list of eligible expenses. A debit card is issued with enrollment.

Whitworth will contribute the following each plan year: 

  • Individual - $700 contribution with first half in June and second half in December (whole balance added for 2024 only)
  • Individual + one or more family member(s) - $1,400 with first half in June and second half in December (whole balance added for 2024 only)

You may contribute pre-tax payroll contributions up to the IRS calendar year limit including Whitworth's contributions. Employees 55 years old and older can contribute an extra $1,000. Reminder: You're enrolled only if enrolling in the HDHP medical plan. 

If you are currently enrolled in a medical FSA plan, the HSA may not begin until all FSA funds are spent. The IRS does not allow both plans to run at the same time. 

HealthEquity

Whitworth's FSA, HRA and HSA are administered by HealthEquity. You must create an account to access your benefit. 

  • Create an account online now at healthequity.com/wageworks.
  • Select "Log in/Register" and then "Employee Registration."
  • You'll need to answer a few simple questions and create a username and password.