Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Candlefocus EditorGenerally, out-of-pocket expenses are intended to cover costs related to medical care, prescriptions, dental care, or home repairs. Some out-of-pocket expenses can be partially reimbursed by insurance, such as copayments and deductibles, leaving the balance to be paid out-of-pocket.
Out-of-pocket expenses can be considered to be essentially non-reimbursed expenses, meaning that the individual pays for them without the promise of reimbursement at a later date. Costs that are considered out-of-pocket expenses typically do not include long-term costs or expenses. These types of expenses are typically paid for over several years and are not typically one-time, out-of-pocket expenses.
The costs associated with purchasing health insurance are also considered out-of-pocket expenses. Insurance premiums, copayments, and deductibles are all costs that the individual will be responsible for, even if the insurance covers the majority of the cost of healthcare or prescriptions. In some cases, out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed tax-free.
Many employers offer reimbursement programs which reimburse out-of-pocket expenses that are related to work-related expenses. This can include travel expenses, meals while traveling, or business-related supplies. To be eligible for reimbursement, the out-of-pocket expense must have been necessary for the job.
Finally, some out-of-pocket expenses can be deductible on your income taxes. These expenses must add up to a certain percentage of the individual's income before they can be deducted. For example, medical expenses must total more than 7.5% of the individual's adjusted gross income before they can be deducted.
Out-of-pocket expenses are any costs or payments that are not covered by insurance, employer, or government program. These out-of-pocket expenses can be for medical care, prescriptions, dental care, home repairs, or even for business trips. In some cases, out-of-pocket expenses can be partially or fully reimbursed, or can be deducted from income taxes. It is important to understand which out-of-pocket expenses are eligible for reimbursement or deduction in order to maximize any potential savings.