Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA)

Child care and elder care can really add up, but there’s a way to save on those costs when you’re working. Set aside pre-tax dollars in the Optum Financial Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA) to pay for eligible dependent care expenses. Every dollar you contribute reduces your taxable income, which means your paycheck goes further.

How it works

  • Determine how much to contribute for the year. Estimate your expenses carefully! All unused DCFSA funds will be forfeited and will not carry over into the next plan year.
  • Contribute through convenient paycheck contributions. Your annual election will be deducted in equal amounts from the first two paychecks of each month. This money is set aside in your Optum Financial DCFSA before state and federal taxes are withheld.
  • Set aside funds. In 2026,
    • Up to $7,500 if you’re married and file joint tax returns or you’re single
    • Up to $3,750 if you’re married and file separate returns
  • Pay for care, and submit a reimbursement claim. Pay for eligible care as usual, then request reimbursement online (auto sign-on with SSO | log in) or through the Optum Financial mobile app.
    • Be sure to keep your receipts!
    • Submit eligible DCFSA expenses in the current year to Optum Financial by March 31 of the following year.
Back to top

Limited changes allowed

You must enroll in the DCFSA every year to participate. If you have a qualifying life event during the year, you may be permitted to make limited changes.

What’s covered

Eligible expenses include:

  • Child care: Before- and after-school care, nursery school, licensed day care centers, preschools, summer and holiday day camps, babysitters, nannies, au pairs
  • Adult care: Senior day care, in-home caregivers, transportation provided by your care provider, and elder care in your home or theirs
  • Other qualifying care: Sick child care and late pick-up fees
Back to top

Who’s a qualified dependent

You can use your DCFSA for:

  • Children under age 13 who live with you and are claimed as dependents on your tax return
  • Spouse or other adult dependent who is physically or mentally incapable of self-care and lives with you
  • Dependent adults who meet IRS dependency requirements and need care while you work

Your care provider must be someone other than:

  • Your spouse
  • Your child under age 19 (as of December 31, of current plan year)
  • A parent of the child
  • Your dependent or your spouse’s dependent
Back to top