Changes coming for TexFlex debit card users

If you have debit cards for your TexFlex health care flexible spending account or dependent care account, two important changes are on the way.

Beginning April 1, 2013, you can use debit cards as either “debit” or “credit” cards. If you choose debit, you will need a personal identification number, or PIN to use the card. If your spouse or dependent also has a card for your account, they will use the same PIN you use. You will need the PIN for debit transactions at any location that accepts your PayFlex Card – pharmacies, doctors’ offices, other health care locations, day care providers, etc.

To get a PIN, call PayFlex Card Services on or after April 1, 2013 at 1-888-999-0121. If you try to call the number before April 1, you will hear a message telling you to call back on or after April 1. Once you have your PIN, you can use the card right away.

This change is part of a new federal law that will reduce the amount of credit card fees that merchants pay. Some merchants may require you to choose debit and not let you use credit.

Starting on May 1, 2013, you will also have to activate a new debit card before you can use it. If you already have a card, it was pre-activated, and you don’t need to do anything. New or replacement cards issued on or after May 1, however, will have to be activated by the owner. You can activate the card the same way you would activate any other debit or credit card. Each card will contain an activation label with a toll-free number. You will dial 1-877-261-9951 to activate your cards.

If you have questions about these changes, please call the number on the back of your debit card.