Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA)

Who can I cover under my DCFSA?

You can cover the following individuals under your DCFSA:

  • A qualifying child under age 13 who is claimed as a dependent for federal income tax purposes. A qualifying child must reside with the participant for more than half the year and must not provide over half of his/her own support.
  • The participant’s legal spouse who is physically or mentally incapable of self-care.
  • A qualifying relative who is physically or mentally incapable of self-care, provided:
    – The participant provides more than one half of that person’s support.
    – The qualifying relative can be claimed as a dependent on the employee’s federal income tax return.
    – The qualifying relative is not a qualifying child of the participant or any other taxpayer.

To access your DCFSA, click here.

What expenses can I pay with my DCFSA?

Your DCFSA funds can be used to pay for dependent day care expenses. Eligible expenses include:

  • Care provided in the participant’s home, even when household services are also provided, however, the participant must separate expenses for care from expenses for household services.
  • Care provided outside the participant’s home for persons who regularly spend at least eight hours a day in the participant’s home. Dependent care centers that provide care for more than six people who don’t live at the center must comply with applicable state and local regulations.
  • Expenses for a babysitter or daycare facility.
  • Before- or after-school care for a child under age 13.

Refer to IRS Publication 503 for a complete list of qualified dependent day care expenses.

How much can I contribute to my DCFSA?

You can contribute up to $5,000 a year ($2,500 maximum if you’re married and file separate tax returns).

What is the difference between a Health Care FSA and a DCFSA?

The DCFSA is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help you pay for qualified care expenses for an eligible dependent, such as daycare.

The Health Care FSA is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help you pay for qualified medical, prescription, dental, and vision expenses for you and your dependents. Both are governed by IRS rules.

Is the DCFSA a way to pay for my family’s medical expenses?

No, the DCFSA does not cover any medical, prescription drug, dental, or vision expenses. It only covers eligible dependent day care expenses.

Will I receive a debit card for the DCFSA?

No. You pay for services upfront and reimburse yourself through paper claims. You can access your FSA here.

How much should I contribute to my DCFSA?

You can use your prior year’s expenses as a base to help you calculate your future expenses. The DCFSA has a “use it or lose it” rule, so any funds you don’t use by the end of the year will be forfeited.

Can I change my DCFSA contribution during the year?

DCFSA contributions cannot be changed during the plan year unless you experience a qualified life event, like having a baby or getting married.

When are my DCFSA funds available?

They’re available for use as they are deposited into your account.

What happens to the money in my DCFSA at the end of the plan year on June 30?

You must incur eligible expenses no later than September 15 and submit a claim for reimbursement by December 31 following the end of the prior plan year (June 30) or any remaining balance will be forfeited.