What is MERP? 

MERP is a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). It is a pre-tax account to use to pay for eligible medical, dental, and vision care expenses that aren't covered by your insurance plan. 

How Does MERP Work? 

  • Begin by estimating your eligible, out-of-pocket health care expenses for the upcoming year.
  • Use your estimate to enroll in MERP when you are first hired or during open enrollment.
  • The money you elect will be deducted from your paycheck on a pre-tax basis. 

Important Facts about MERP

  • MERP funds can be used for eligible out-of-pocket expenses for yourself and/or your dependents (spouse and eligible children).
    • Domestic Partners are not considered eligible dependents under federal law; therefore you cannot claim their expenses (unless they are a "qualifying relative"). 
  • You have access to your total annual amount for MERP on Jan. 1 of the plan year.
  • New participants will receive a MERP debit card (formerly known as Benny card) in the mail, which can be used for eligible expenses.
  • The minimum annual amount is $240, and the maximum is $3,050. Up to $640 in unused funds will be carried over at the end of the year for 2024. Funds in excess of the $640 rollover limit are subject to the “use it or lose it” rule.
  • Eligible expenses incurred through 12/31/23 may be submitted for reimbursement to PacificSource through 3/31/24. 

What are some examples of MERP eligible expenses? 

  • Copays
  • Prescription medications
  • Glasses, contact lenses, and contact lens solution
  • Asthma inhalers
  • Blood pressure monitors
  • Lasik
  • Sunscreen
  • Acupuncture
  • Chiropractic
  • Glucose monitors 
  • Face masks (cloth and medical)
  • Over the counter medicines like: pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen, antihistamines, decongestants, cough syrup, throat lozenges, eye drops, etc.
  • First aid supplies like: bandages and antibiotic ointments
  • Menstrual care products 
  • See more on the  List of Eligible MERP Expenses from PacificSource (253.74 KB)
    • Note: Some items listed require a  FSA Letter of Medical Necessity (64.22 KB) in order to be eligible.  These items are noted as such in the list; please check item notes carefully before making a purchase or contact PacificSource if you are unsure: 800-422-7038. 

When can I sign up? 

  • Within 31 days of employment or eligibility
  • During every Open Enrollment period (Oct. - Nov.), you need to enroll for the following year 
  • You can also change, end, or enroll during the year if you have qualifying events (new baby, marriage, certain job changes)

What if I leave County employment mid-way through the year? 

You can continue participating through MERP COBRA

What are the differences between MERP and HRA VEBA?

There are many similarities between MERP and HRA VEBA. HRA VEBA is only available to employees in specific bargaining units and those who qualify are automatically enrolled. Find out more on our HRA VEBA page. 

MERP Account Access & Customer Support

Access your MERP account through PacificSource. You are given a username and password upon enrollment. If you have questions about submitting expenses, expense eligibility, or need help creating or accessing your account, please contact PacificSource by email or call 800-422-7038.


MERP Forms

MERP Documents and Information


For more information: employee.benefits@multco.us, 503-988-3477.

PacificSource Administrators
Customer Service:  Toll Free 800-422-7038  --  http://psa.pacificsource.com/PSA/