Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)
This page provides information on the Dependent Care FSA.
Benefit Overview
Who Can Participate? All Employees
Maximum Annual Contribution: $5,000/calendar year per Household
Account Overview: Pay for eligible out-of-pocket dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars. Eligible expenses may include daycare centers, in-home childcare, and before or after school care for your dependent children under age 13. All caregivers must have a tax ID or Social Security number. This information must be included on your federal tax return. If you use the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, the IRS will not allow you to claim a dependent care credit for reimbursed expenses. Funds in this account are use it or lose it.
What is a Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)?
A Dependent Care FSA is a flexible spending account that allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars for dependent care expenses that allow you to work or look for work. You can choose an annual election amount, up to $5,000 per family. The money is placed in your account via payroll deduction, in equal installments, and then used to pay for eligible dependent care expenses incurred during the plan year.
Understanding Eligible Expenses for Reimbursement
Your Dependent Care FSA is meant to be utilized to assist with dependent care expenses. See below for some examples of eligible and ineligible expenses.
Eligible and Ineligible Dependent Care FSA Expenses
| Eligible Expenses |
Ineligible Expenses |
- Before school or after school care for children 12 and younger
- Custodial care for dependent adults
- Licensed day care centers
- Nanny/Au Pair
- Nursery schools or preschools
- Late pick-up fees
- Summer or holiday day camps
|
- Expenses incurred in a prior plan year
- Expenses for non-disabled children 13 and older
- Educational expenses including kindergarten or private school tuition fees
- Food, clothing, sports lessons, field trips, and entertainment
- Overnight camp expenses
- Late payment fees for child care
|
A comprehensive list of eligible expenses can be found at the My SmartCare portal.
Using Your Dependent Care FSA
The easiest way to pay for an FSA eligible expense is to use your FSA Benefits Debit Card. Simply swipe it at the register and keep your receipt should claim documentation be required. Visit the Debit Card Registration webpage for information on how to get started with your FSA Debit card. Otherwise, you can file a claim through the MySmartCare online portal or mobile app, or by mail, fax, or e-mail (including the receipt documenting the service type, amount, and date). Once approved, your reimbursement check will be mailed or you will receive a direct deposit into your designated bank account. For instructions on how to file a claim, visit the Submit a Claim webpage.
Important Dependent Care FSA Information
- You must have funds in your Dependent Care FSA before you can spend them
- You cannot change your election amount during the plan year, unless you experience a change in status or qualifying event
- Keep your receipts, you will need an itemized invoice for all reimbursement requests.
- Any unused funds that remain in your account at the end of the year will be forfeited. Plan carefully and use all the money in your Dependent Care FSA by the end of the plan year.
Contact Information
BCC is the third-party administrator for all FSA accounts
Phone: (800) 685-6100
Email: [email protected]
Website: mywealthcareonline.com/bccsmartcare/
Customer Service Center Hours
Monday - Thursday: 5:00am - 5:00pm PT
Friday: 5:00am - 3:00pm PT
The Call Center can assist with questions regarding account balance, claim status, substantiation, debit cards, check reimbursement, eligible expenses, My SmartCare registration, and other general FSA questions.
Reference