2020 has been a crazy year. We are all looking to 2021 with hope in our hearts! However, before you turn your calendars over, you may have a to-do list of things you want to accomplish before the end of the year. That list should include a visit to your dentist; if you do not make an appointment, you could be letting valuable benefits go to waste. Let’s talk about how you can use your dental insurance and your HSA/FSA to your greatest benefit.
Insurance Expires on December 31
Dental insurance usually works on a calendar-year basis. At the beginning of the year, you were given an annual maximum — the greatest amount that your insurer is willing to pay out for approved services throughout the year. At the end of the year, any unused portion of that maximum disappears forever. It is quite rare for insurance plans to have any sort of rollover provision.
Here are two things you can do to get more out of your 2020 policy:
- Request a preventive appointment. Most dental plans allow you to attend two checkups and cleanings each year at little to no out of pocket cost.
- Promptly schedule recommended restorative care. If you know you need a specific treatment, you might still have time to use 2020’s policy to get it taken care of. If you require an extensive service, you might even be able to schedule part of it this year and part of it next year; you could thus use two annual maximums instead of just one.
Do Not Forget Your HSA or FSA
Healthcare savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) both allow you to set aside tax-free money that you can put toward dental and medical expenses. You can even combine them with your insurance!
You should keep in mind, though, that FSAs usually expire at the end of the calendar year. If they have a rollover provision, only partof the money may be available to you in 2021. HSAs are different and do not expire; they can roll over year after year and even come with you from job to job. However, the longevity of an HSA doesn’t mean you should delay in using it. After all, that money can be a precious resource that helps you afford the care your smile needs in order to thrive.
Questions? Your Dental Team Is Here to Help!
Are you taking full advantage of your dental benefits? If you have questions about how to get the most out of your insurance, FSA, or HSA, your local dental team would be happy to help you. Just give them a call to learn how they can assist you!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Gretchen Anjomi is the leader of our team at Newton Corner Dental Care. She is a graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Anjomi and the talented staff members who support her are proud to provide top-quality care at reasonable prices. We accept many forms of dental insurance. To learn how we can help you maximize your 2020 benefits, contact us at 617-332-6232.
