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What Dependent Care Expenses Are Eligible for a DCFSA?

Understand which dependent-care expenses may qualify for DCFSA reimbursement.

Use this Guide to tell the difference between care that may qualify for DCFSA reimbursement and costs that are usually outside the rules.

The two rules that matter most

The care must be for a qualifying person and enable you to work or look for work. When applicable, the same general work-related test also applies to your spouse.

The care must already have happened. Submit the actual service dates, not a deposit or invoice for future care.

  • Daycare, nursery school, or preschool
  • A babysitter or nanny
  • Before- or after-school care that supervises your dependent
  • Summer day camp
  • Adult day care for an eligible dependent

Expenses that usually do not qualify

  • Kindergarten or higher-grade tuition
  • Overnight camp
  • Food, clothing, or entertainment
  • Optional, separately priced enrichment, tutoring, or activity fees

Practical distinctions

School programs: Preschool or nursery school may qualify, but education costs generally do not. If a bill combines care with non-care services, submit only the eligible care portion.

Before- and after-school programs: Care that supervises your dependent may qualify. A separately priced class or enrichment activity is not automatically eligible.

Care providers: Payments to your spouse, the parent of your qualifying child under age 13, someone you can claim as a dependent, or your child under age 19 generally do not qualify.

Hammock helps you submit and track DCFSA requests in one place. For the step-by-step flow, see How to Enroll.

Questions about a specific expense? Contact Hammock Support.