Railroad Employees Flexible Benefits Program
In much the same way that a 401k program allows individuals to use pre-tax dollars to save for retirement, the Railroad Employees Flexible Benefits Program allows members to use pre-tax dollars to pay for certain medical expenses or dependent care expenses. The current 2008 plan allows members to save anywhere from $120 to $5,000 per year for dependent care expenses, or $120 to $3,600 per year for medical expenses. It is expected the dollar amounts will change under the upcoming 2009 plan year.
However, the program is in danger of being lost unless membership participation increases. Side Letter #8 of the 2007 National Contract specifies that at least 5 percent of eligible BLET members must participate in the plan or it will be terminated as of December 31, 2009. Current participation levels are below the 5 percent threshold, and the BLET is encouraging all members to contact United HealthCare for details when open enrollment begins.
Open enrollment for the plan will begin in the near future. Details on how to enroll will be provided on the BLET website and in the BLET newsletter once open enrollment begins.
In the meantime, the following information is being made available to BLET members so they can learn more about this money-saving plan.
Over-the-Counter Medical Care Items Eligible and Ineligible for Reimbursement Under UnitedHealthcare Plans (PDF)
November 3, 2008
Flexible Spending Account enrollment still underway
October 21, 2008
Flexible Benefit Plan enrollment materials now available
September 16, 2008
Flexible Spending Account will provide real savings
July 24, 2008
Flexible Benefit Plan information center now available
July 17, 2008
Flexible Spending Account enrollment begins in October
May 30, 2008
Flexible Benefits program allows members to save on health care expenses
