IRS Guidelines for OTC purchases and HCR website now available in Spanish

This week, we bring you two items of importance:

1. IRS Provides Guidance on Over the Counter (OTC) Drug Restrictions
This much-anticipated guidance comes not a moment too soon, as calendar-year plan sponsors and administrators prepare for open enrollment. It provides clarification on many issues, but also leaves some open questions - especially regarding the use of debit cards. We knew that these changes were coming, but it is helpful to read these changes direct from the IRS.

Latest Guidance from the IRS
Questions and Answers from the IRS

2. HHS unveils health care website in Spanish 
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has unveiled CuidadodeSalud.gov, the first website in Spanish of its kind to help consumers take control of their health care. It will connect users to new information and resources that will help to access quality, affordable health care coverage. Consistent with the mandate in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), CuidadodeSalud.gov is the partner site of HealthCare.gov, which was launched in July 2010. In October 2010, the site will include price estimates for health insurance plans. In the weeks and months ahead, new information on preventing disease and illness and improving the quality of health care for all Americans will also be posted.