Can employer "reverse" forfeiture of medical FSA contributio

[Guest Joseph Vyto]

Unfortunately, I did not realize the deadline for submitting my reimbursement request was March 31. I stupidly thought that instead of making a number of claims during 2000 that it would be more efficient to accummulate them as I do for my tax return and do them simultaneously. When I asked my HR manager for the necessary form - there was no mention by the manager nor the form of the deadline. I'm told it's in the Plan Document and I'm not disputing that. However, over $1000 will be lost here if there truly is no remedy available. Please help!

[Lisa Hand]

If the deadline is in the plan documents, it is likely also in your enrollment packet, on the enrollment form for the benefit, as well as in the information distributed on the benefit. While many of the items handed out for benefits are not considered the most interesting reading, they do provide the details, rules and responsibilities. Some plans also send out reminders during the plan year and the close-out period to prevent surprises; however, it is not required. If you missed the deadline, the funds are forfieted. It is a "Use it or Lose it" benefit. You are permitted to appeal plan decisions in writing; however, unless there are other factors you have not detailed, like the submission on 4/17/2001 was a follow up to an earlier denied claim from before the deadline, the appeal is not likely to be successful since the plan administrator must comply with the plan documents.