NEWS!!!

As a UT FLEX participant who elected the PayFlex card, we are writing to let you know about a change in how your PayFlex card can be used. Today, when you use your PayFlex card, the transaction is automatically processed as a credit card transaction against your pre-funded Annual Enrollment Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA) election. Beginning April 1, 2013, due to recent changes in federal regulations, merchants may choose to process flexible spending account purchases as “debit” transactions, which require a Personal Identification Number (PIN), rather than processing your UT FLEX account purchases as credit card transactions.

UT FLEX participants who have a PayFlex card will need to have a PIN to use the card at merchants who choose to process transactions as a debit rather than as a credit. PayFlex has provided a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about this change, which includes information about how to get a PIN (by calling Card Services on or after April 1, 2013), what to do if you forget your PIN, what to do if you have more than one PayFlex card, and more.

Please note: PayFlex cards on file at Express Scripts (to pay for mail order prescriptions) will continue to be processed as credit card transactions against your available balance. Therefore, a PIN is not required to obtain your prescription medications through the Express Scripts mail order system. However, other merchants, including retail pharmacies, physician offices, dental offices, etc., may require your UT FLEX transaction to be processed as a “debit.” A PIN will be required to complete transactions being processed as debits.

If you have additional questions about a PIN being required for some UT FLEX debit card transactions beginning on April 1, 2013, or about your UT FLEX account, please contact PayFlex Customer Service at (866) 887-3539.

Thank you,

Office of Employee Benefits

UTEP Employee Assistance Program