FSA Claims Substantiation Update

Flexible spending participants,

You may have noticed a series of messages from Burnham and Flower/Acrisure regarding flexible spending and providing receipts. A message from Amber Howes on May 28 should have reached you, and it is duplicated below. In sum, only claims occurring on/after May 1, 2025 need to be substantiated. Your HR team expects flexible spending communication and processes to return to acceptable levels immediately. Please reach out to hr.benefits@kzoo.edu if you experience is something different.

In good health,
Renee Boelcke and Miasha Wilson


Kalamazoo College FSA Participants:

As you are aware, new claims substantiation requirements were recently implemented for your FSA plan.  Beginning with claims incurred after May 1, 2025, you will be required to substantiate your FSA expenses.   

WHY NOW?

The IRS requires participants with health care and dependent care FSA plans to provide claims substantiation to their employer or TPA to receive reimbursement.

WHEN IS SUBSTANTION REQUIRED?

The IRS requires substantiation for every claim including card swipes.  However, if certain conditions are met, the claim may be auto-substantiated at the point of sale and additional documentation will not be required.

Claims can be auto-substantiated in the following circumstances:

  1. When using a debit card at a health care provider (including dental and vision providers)
    1. Copayment matching – If the card swipe matches the known copayment of the respective health plan, the claim will be auto-substantiated for charges in the amount of the copayment.
    2. Recurring expenses –  If the FSA participant has claims on a recurring basis in the same dollar amount, from the same provider, the claim will be auto-substantiated after the first claim is substantiated.
  2. For debit card purchases made through an inventory information approval system (IIAS) –IIAS is a point-of-sale technology that select merchants use that identifies transactions are eligible under an FSA or HRA. Ideally, all card swipes at an IIAS merchant would be auto-substantiated but there will be times purchases from these merchants will still require substation.  When a card swipe occurs, data is transmitted to us indicating the swipe is for an eligible expense.  However, there are times that IIAS substantiation fail to go through and participants will receive a request for documentation. 

HOW DO YOU SUBSTANTIATE CLAIMS?

Submitting documentation is a necessary part of receiving a tax-advantaged benefit and we try to make it as simple as possible.

First, save your receipts! 

Second, use the Portal (bfgroup.wealthcareportal.com) or Mobile App (App Store – Burnham & Flower Group Mobile) to easily submit documentation.  Simply upload your receipt from the merchant or service provider that includes the following information:

  1. Date of service
  2. Description of service
  3. Name of provider
  4. Dollar amount charged

This information is generally available on an itemized receipt, statement from a provider, or an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from an insurance carrier.  You are encouraged to hold on to your itemized receipts/documentation with your annual tax records for proof the card was used correctly. If you ever receive an IRS tax audit, you will need to document all medical expenses. It is recommended you retain copies of this documentation with tax records for up to seven years.

We are deeply sorry for the confusing emails regarding these updated procedures and pending transactions over the last several months.  We are committed to improving communication with our participants and look forward to providing you with clear and meaningful communication and resources in the months ahead. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out to Amber Howes ahowes@acrisure.com or our Acrisure Claims Advocate, Sandy Reid, at sreid@acrisure.com or 269-341-9212 with any questions about your FSA plan or the claims substantiation requirements. 

Caring for Our Community: Celebrating National Employee Wellness Month

At Kalamazoo College, our mission is to prepare graduates to lead in a complex and diverse world—but we know that mission begins with taking care of our faculty and staff. This June, we join organizations nationwide in recognizing National Employee Wellness Month, an opportunity to reflect on how we support the holistic well-being of our campus community.

As a member of the Wellness Committee, I’m excited to help champion initiatives that uplift the whole person—not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and financially. When we take care of each other, we strengthen the foundation of everything we do as a college.

The Importance of Holistic Well-Being

Holistic wellness is a multi-dimensional approach that acknowledges that health isn’t just about preventing illness. It’s about creating an environment where every member of our community can thrive. Research supports this approach. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2021) reports that workplace wellness programs can help reduce health risks, increase productivity, and improve quality of life.

Key Focus Areas for Employee Wellness Month
  1. Physical Wellness
    We encourage everyone to take small steps to move more throughout the day. Whether it’s a lunchtime walk, attending a fitness class, or simply stretching at your desk, physical activity supports long-term health. If scheduling presents a problem, consider speaking with your supervisor regarding our flexible scheduling policy that can allow you to participate in our wellness programming.
  2. Mental and Emotional Health
    Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers all employees free, confidential support for stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2019), the global impact of mental health issues on workplace productivity is enormous—making it vital to address this area proactively. Consider prioritizing mindfulness and emotional resilience by attending one of our Mindful Monday sessions.
  3. Financial Wellness
    The American Psychological Association (2023) identifies financial stress as a leading contributor to overall well-being concerns. With rising financial stress across the country, we’re committed to helping employees build financial confidence. Consider signing up for one of our monthly retirement planning sessions with TIAA, attending a financial webinar or viewing the On-demand Personal Finance 101 video, sponsored by One Digital, a Kalamazoo College partner.
Beyond June: A Year-Round Commitment

Wellness doesn’t stop at the end of the month—it’s something we’re working to embed into our campus culture every day. From flexible scheduling to supportive policies, we’re striving to ensure that Kalamazoo College is a place where faculty and staff feel respected, supported, and empowered to live healthy lives.

If you have ideas, questions, or would like to get involved with future wellness initiatives, please don’t hesitate to reach out to HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu. Let’s take care of each other as we continue creating a more inclusive and supportive campus community—together.

References

American Psychological Association. (2023). Stress in America 2023. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2023/report

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Workplace health promotion. https://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/index.html

World Health Organization. (2019). Mental health in the workplace. https://www.who.int/mental_health/in_the_workplace/en/

Mental Health at Work: Small Shifts, Big Impact

May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to reflect on how we care for our emotional well-being both inside and outside of work. Whether you’re managing daily responsibilities, balancing personal commitments, or just trying to stay afloat, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. The good news is that small, intentional choices can help us build resilience and protect our mental health over time.

5 Small Shifts That Matter
  1. Name It to Tame It – Pause and check in with yourself. Naming how you’re feeling is a form of self-awareness that can lessen its intensity.
  2. Microbreaks Matter – A 5-minute walk or deep-breathing session between tasks can reset your nervous system and help you refocus.
  3. Set Soft Boundaries – If you find yourself saying “yes” to everything, practice saying, “Can I get back to you after I check my workload?”
  4. Protect One “No Meeting” Hour – Block off one hour a day (or even a few times a week) to do focused work or just breathe.
  5. Use Your Benefits – Don’t wait until you’re at a breaking point. Our BHS Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free, confidential counseling and support resources.

Taking care of your mental health isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Whether you explored a new BHS video this month or will try one small shift from the list above, know that every step counts. You’re not alone, and support is always within reach.

A Focus on Mental Health Within Families

This insightful video emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness within family dynamics. It highlights how family members can support each other’s mental well-being, recognize signs of mental health issues, and create a nurturing environment that promotes open communication and understanding. Key topics covered include:

  • Recognizing Signs of Mental Health Issues: The video discusses common indicators of mental health struggles within family members, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.​
  • Effective Communication Strategies: It offers guidance on fostering open and empathetic conversations about mental health, encouraging family members to share their feelings and experiences without judgment.​
  • Creating a Supportive Environment: The video underscores the role of a nurturing home atmosphere in promoting mental well-being, including establishing routines, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care collectively.​
  • Seeking Professional Help: It encourages families to consider professional support when needed, highlighting the benefits of therapy and counseling in addressing mental health concerns.​

By providing these insights, the video aims to empower families to proactively engage in mental health discussions and support each other through challenges.

Watch the video here: A Focus on Mental Health Within Families

The Ins & Outs of Therapy from the Counselor’s Chair

This insightful video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the therapeutic process from a counselor’s perspective. It aims to demystify therapy by addressing common questions and concerns individuals may have when considering counseling. Key topics covered include:

  • Understanding the Therapeutic Relationship: The video emphasizes the importance of building trust and rapport between the therapist and client, highlighting how this relationship forms the foundation for effective therapy.​
  • What to Expect in Therapy Sessions: Viewers are guided through the typical structure of therapy sessions, including initial assessments, goal setting, and the collaborative nature of the therapeutic journey.​
  • Common Misconceptions: The counselor addresses and clarifies common myths about therapy, such as the belief that seeking help is a sign of weakness or that therapy is only for severe issues.​
  • Benefits of Therapy: The video outlines the various ways therapy can assist individuals, from developing coping strategies and improving communication skills to fostering personal growth and resilience.​

By providing this overview, the video encourages individuals to consider therapy as a valuable resource for mental health support and personal development.

Watch the video here: The Ins & Outs of Therapy from the Counselor’s Chair

Reminder: Request for Nomi Feedback

Please be invited to share your thoughts on Nomi by May 9. There are five questions and only one requires a response. Your contribution will help inform next steps, if any. Additional information on Nomi is on the “Share your thoughts” page and some information is duplicated below.

Nomi Information

What is Nomi? How would work with ASR and our existing healthcare network?

Nomi’s Direct Network ensures that providers are paid quickly and in full so that employers can offer a rich health benefit that employees can use. Since providers are guaranteed to be paid in full in a short period of time, they are willing to reduce the overall cost of care, benefiting employees and employers. You could still use a provider not in the Nomi network, which would mean that the current copays, coinsurance, and deductibles would still apply, just as you experience them today. Current day “in-network” would separate into Tier 1 (Nomi) and Tier 2 (in-network, non-Nomi). Current day “out-of-network” would be renamed “Tier 3.”

Benefits SummaryTier 1
Nomi
Tier 2
Black Plan
Tier 2
Orange Plan
Tier 3
Black Plan
Tier 3
Orange Plan
Deductible
(Single/Family)
$0/$0$1,000/
$2,000
$0/$0$1,500/
$3,000
$500/
$1,000
Outpatient Co-insurance0%10%0%30%20%
Inpatient Co-insurance0%10%0%30%20%
Coinsurance OOP Max
(Single/Family)
$0/$0$6,000/
$12,000
$6,000/
$12,000
N/AN/A
Preventative Care$0$0$030%20%
Office Visit Copay$0$25$1030%20%
Urgent CareSame as Network
In/Out
$50$2030%20%
ER Copay
waived if admitted
Same as Network
In/Out
$150$150$150$150
Current network, without NomiN/AIn-networkIn-networkOut-of-NetworkOut-of-Network
How can I learn if my provider is already part of the Nomi network?

Nomi has approximately 20,000 providers in network with more being added regularly.
Use sample group ID MNCL1 to search the current directory at https://www.nomihealth.com/provider-search.

Tier 1 common local providers

Bronson Battle Creek Hospital
Bronson Lakeview Hospital
Bronson Methodist Hospital
Mercy Health St. Mary’s
University of Michigan Ann Arbor
University of Michigan Health System

Tier 2* common local providers

Borgess Hospital
Bronson at Home
Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospital
Hospice of Greater Kalamazoo
Indiana Center for Recovery South Bend
Kalamazoo Endo Center
Life EMS of Kalamazoo
Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital
Northwestern Memorial Healthcare
Optimed Infusion Services
Pine Rest Christian Mential Health Services
Surgery Center of Kalamazoo
Woodbridge Center
*All in-network providers through ASR/HAP/Physicians Network not listed in Tier 1

Tier 3

All out-of-network providers from ASR/HAP/Physician’s Network

How would mental health care though BHS and Nomi work together?

Copays for mental health services would reduce to zero ($0) for BHS providers.

Focus on the Positive: Stress Less

In this short and insightful video, BHS highlights the powerful role that positive thinking plays in reducing stress and improving overall mental health. Viewers will learn how our thoughts shape our experiences and how shifting to a more positive mindset can help us better manage life’s daily challenges. The video explores:

  • The connection between positive thinking and physical well-being
  • How optimism influences our ability to cope with stress
  • Practical tips to reframe negative thoughts and build a more resilient outlook
  • The importance of practicing gratitude and celebrating small wins

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for ways to stay grounded during stressful times, this video offers simple, actionable steps to help you stress less and focus more on what’s going right.

📌 Takeaway: You can’t always control what happens, but you can control where you place your attention. And that shift can make all the difference.

Watch the video here:
Focus on the Positive – Stress Less (BHS QuickClip)

May is Mental Health Awareness Month – Let’s Talk Gratitude!

To support our well-being during Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re excited to share a special video from Behavioral Health Systems (BHS), our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and mental health partner: “Gratitude: The Emotional Key to Stress Management.”

This inspiring BHS QuickClip explores the transformative power of gratitude and its impact on emotional well-being and stress management. While gratitude might seem simple, the video highlights how intentional practice can significantly improve mood, relationships, and overall mental health.

Whether you’re new to gratitude or looking to refocus this May, this video offers a gentle reminder of the power in pausing, reflecting, and giving thanks.

A regular gratitude practice has been shown to improve sleep, reduce anxiety, increase energy, and strengthen the immune system — making it a powerful tool for both mental and physical health.

Let’s use this month as a reminder to slow down, reflect, and prioritize our well-being—together.

Join us Monday, May 5 for Mindful Time Management in Mandelle Hall’s Olmsted Room (or virtually)! Please take a moment to RSVP and let us know how you’ll be attending.

📽️ Watch now: Gratitude: The Emotional Key to Stress Management

Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Raising Awareness and Supporting the Community

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, muscle control, and coordination. Parkinson’s disease can impact anyone, and it’s essential to understand its symptoms, challenges, and the resources available to support those living with this condition. By educating ourselves and others, we can help create a more supportive environment for individuals affected by Parkinson’s.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that control muscle movement become damaged or die, leading to tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance issues. While the exact cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, research continues to explore genetic and environmental factors that may contribute to the disease.

Key symptoms of Parkinson’s include:

  • Tremors (shaking in the hands, arms, or legs)
  • Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
  • Muscle rigidity (stiffness in the limbs and neck)
  • Postural instability (balance problems)
  • Speech and swallowing difficulties

Symptoms can vary from person to person, and the progression of the disease differs, with some individuals experiencing mild symptoms for many years while others may see rapid deterioration.

Supporting Employees with Parkinson’s Disease

At work, individuals living with Parkinson’s disease may face challenges with physical tasks, speech, and mobility. As an organization, it’s important to be mindful of these challenges and ensure we create an inclusive and supportive workplace.

Here are ways we can help employees affected by Parkinson’s disease:

  • Workplace Adjustments: Consider flexible work schedules or alternative workspaces for those who need to manage their symptoms. Offering ergonomic adjustments, such as comfortable seating or assistive technologies, can help employees with motor impairments remain productive.
  • Mental Health Support: Parkinson’s disease can be accompanied by emotional challenges, including anxiety and depression. Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers counseling services for mental health support, which can be especially helpful for managing the emotional toll of living with a chronic illness.
  • Physical Therapy and Exercise Programs: Regular exercise can improve strength, flexibility, and overall quality of life for those with Parkinson’s. Our health benefits includes physical therapy services that can help employees with Parkinson’s manage their symptoms and improve their mobility.
Relevant Benefits to Support Your Health and Well-Being

Our benefits package includes several resources that may be particularly beneficial for those managing Parkinson’s disease:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provides confidential support for mental health concerns, including counseling for stress, depression, and anxiety, which can often accompany a chronic illness like Parkinson’s.
  • Physical and Occupational Therapy: Coverage for physical and occupational therapy can help employees living with Parkinson’s maintain mobility, strength, and independence.
  • Health Coaching and Wellness Programs: Regular exercise is important for managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Our wellness programs may include fitness activities or health coaching that help employees stay active and engaged.
Call to Action

This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we encourage you to learn more about Parkinson’s disease and how we can create a more supportive workplace for those living with it. If you or someone you know is affected by Parkinson’s, consider reaching out to our Benefits team for guidance on available resources. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has access to the support they need to thrive, no matter their health challenges.

References

  1. Parkinson’s Foundation. (2023). What is Parkinson’s disease? Retrieved from https://www.parkinson.org
  2. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2022). Parkinson’s disease information page. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov
  3. American Parkinson Disease Association. (2023). Supporting those with Parkinson’s. Retrieved from https://www.apdaparkinson.org

Everyday Bias in the Workplace Training

Kalamazoo College and Kalamazoo Public Safety are excited to share three (3) remaining sessions of the Everyday Bias in the Workplace training led by Assistant Chief Victor Green. This session is designed to examine the issues and concerns related to unconscious bias (implicit bias) in the workplace. Participants will define and describe how implicit bias (which we all have) impacts the workplace, from leadership to managers, to co-workers, and citizens. Lastly, we will review and discuss methods to disrupt biases to improve decision-making and interactions with others in the workplace. Registration is required. All sessions will occur at KDPS Station #2 (1007 E. Alcott St., Kalamazoo). This is the same session offered earlier in the year.

Training Dates (Select 1 session based on your availability):

May 7, 2025 – 1:00 to 3:00 pm
July 9, 2025 – 9:00 to 11:00 am
October 2, 2025 – 1:00 to 3:00 pm

Training Registration Linkhttps://forms.office.com/g/gnuFDTXgq6

The City of Kalamazoo is making the these sessions available to our employees at no cost. Please check with your supervisor before registering.