FSA New Year’s resolutions for 2014

It's time to make your 2014 New Year's resolutions. Do you have any particular ideas in mind?

A lot of New Year's resolutions fall in line with the two main benefits of a Flexible Spending Account: enjoying savings and focusing on you or your family's health!

Popular resolutions often involve exercising, quitting smoking, eating healthier and saving more money.

Flexible Spending Account Resolutions

Save money. A pre-tax FSA can help you save up to 40% on the dollar on health care expenses. Not to mention, it's a great benefit that allows you to pay for expenses often not covered by a regular insurance plan.

Quit smoking. Smoking cessation programs and smoking deterrents are FSA eligible expenses when prescribed by your doctor.

Create a healthy lifestyle. Keep tabs on your heart health; take care of your skin year-round with FSA eligible sunscreen for the face; and dull aches and pains with FSA eligible elastics and athletic treatments.

Plan ahead for emergencies. It's been about a year since the last supposed “end of the world," but it can't hurt to prep for an emergency with first aid kits for home and travel.

Take care of baby. Breast pumps and accessories such as nursing pads and storage bottles are covered.

Check your vision. Have an annual eye exam to make sure eye health is optimal.-- Schedule a dental cleaning. Avoid cavities and other problems with regular cleanings.

Visit a chiropractor. Chiropractors are often not eligible under an insurance plan, but you can see one with an FSA.

Count the mileage. Transportation to and from medical services counts toward FSA reimbursement.

Cover child care. A Dependent Care FSA lets you set aside up to $5,000 per household in pre-tax funds to pay for child or adult care so you and your spouse can work, search for work, or be full-time students.

Shop for FSA-eligible products at FSA store.