Weight loss expenses

[SLuskin]

I have a client who says the regs have changed regarding reimbursing expenses for weight loss and visits to the nutritionist. We have not been reimbursing for weight loss unless there is a previously diagnosed medically related condition.

[Guest]

I think that this is probably a state by state issue - I don't think that ADA or other reg has come out requiring coverage. I know last year, the state of GA passed a law that said employers may consider paying for weight loss reduction (durgs or surgery). As you may guess with that wording, no one changed because they did not have to.

[Guest lmrice]

Are you talking about reimbursements from a FSA? If so, the federal IRS regulations would prevail over state. And you're right,visits to nutritionists and weight loss remedies are not qualifed medical expenses.

[SLuskin]

Thanks for your help. I hadn't seen any changes either, but when the client is a law firm and gets insistent, it's nice to have you all out there for a second opinion.