Flexible Spending / Dependent Care Account

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Dependent Care Account (DCA) are available to all benefit eligible active employees.  Enrollment in these benefits will help you save taxes on eligible healthcare expenses.
 
An FSA helps you set aside funds before they’re taxed to pay for medical, dental and vision expenses not covered by your insurance.  Over-the-counter items like Tylenol and thermometers and feminine hygiene products are also covered.  The IRS has increased the Flexible Spending Account (FSA) contribution limits for 2025; participants may contribute up to an annual maximum of $3,300 with a $660 carryover allowed.  The minimum annual election for each FSA remains unchanged at $100.
 
If you have childcare or eldercare costs, participating in a Dependent Care FSA is a great way to save money.  A DCA is an employer-sponsored flexible spending account that allows employees to set aside up to $5,000 ($2,500 if married filing separately) annually in pre-tax dollars to cover eligible dependent care expenses. These expenses can be used to care for your dependents such as children, those with a disability, or the elderly. One of the most significant advantages of a DCA is the potential tax savings it offers. By contributing pre-tax dollars, you can reduce your taxable income. This can lower your overall tax liability, meaning you may keep more of your hard-earned money for other expenses.
 
DCA offers flexibility in spending the allocated funds, allowing you to tailor them to your needs. Some common examples of eligible expenses include:
  • Licensed daycare centers

  • Preschool programs

  • Before-and-after school care

  • In-home babysitter or outside-of-home babysitter

  • Day camps

  • Custodial care of an adult dependent who is mentally and/or physically incapable of caring for himself or herself