Dependent Care FSA Eligible Expenses - Qualified Child Care Items

We all need to work in order to provide for our families. This is why leveraging Dependent Care FSA funds to cover dependent care expenses is critical.

Dependent Care FSA accounts — also known as Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) accounts — provide a tax-free way to cover day care related expenses for children under 13, as well as adult dependents. Take care of your family while making every dollar count!

Check out the eligibility lists below.

Dependent Care FSA Eligible Expenses Image

What qualifies as an eligible dependent care expense? The IRS has outlined a list of Dependent Care FSA eligible expenses.

These expenses include:

Before school or after school care (other than tuition)
Qualifying custodial care for dependent adults
Licensed day care centers
Nursery schools or pre-schools
Placement fees for a dependent care provider, such as an au pair
Child care at a day camp, nursery school, or by a private sitter
Late pick-up fees
Summer or holiday day camps

Unfortunately, not all dependent care expenses are covered. The IRS has outlined the following items as not being eligible for tax-free purposes using Dependent Care FSA funds, including:

Expenses for non-disabled children 13 and older
Educational expenses including kindergarten, or private school tuition fees
Amounts paid for food, clothing, sports lessons, field trips, or entertainment
Overnight camp expenses
Registration fees
Transportation expenses
Late payment fees
Payment for services not yet provided (payment in advance)
Medical care

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Be sure to also check out our HSA, FSA, and HRA Eligible Expenses list and Commuter Benefits Eligible Expenses list. If you have additional questions regarding eligible expenses, please contact your accountant or financial advisor.