Who is considered an eligible dependent?
Under the FSA program, eligible dependents include:

Children under age 13

Your spouse (if mentally or physically disabled)

Any other qualified dependents under the IRS Code, regardless of age, who are mentally or physically incapable of caring for themselves and live in your home at least eight hours per day.

How do I enroll in the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account?
You can enroll annually during Open Enrollment or if you experience a qualifying event.  Elections remain in effect through Dec. 31 of each calendar year.  If you have a qualifying event, you may enroll for the remainder of the calendar year by accessing My Total Access by clicking here.

What's a qualifying event?

• Marriage
• Divorce
• Birth of a child
• Change in status from regular part-time to full-time or vice versa
• Unpaid leaves of absence for you or your spouse
• A significant change in your spouse's employment
• Children who reach the maximum age limit to be considered a dependent in this plan
• The death of spouse or child
• A change in day care provider

What do I need to consider for enrollment?
You will need to estimate your out-of-pocket day care expenses.  It is important to be conservative in estimating what you will use as any remaining amounts left in the account after a plan year will be forfeited. 

How much may I contribute annually?
Employees may contribute up to $5,000 annually, including the Carilion contribution.

How much will Carilion contribute?
Carilion will contribute $10 per paycheck.

When do I need to submit claims?
All claims must be filed by March 31 following the end of the plan year.

How long do I have to spend the money in my FSA?
You have until March 15 of the following year to incur expenses and spend the dollars in your account. Any dollars not spent by March 15 will be forfeited.