Your pre-tax benefits can be used for yourself, your spouse, and your qualified dependents, though eligibility rules vary by benefit type.
Healthcare benefits, such as Health Savings Accounts or Health FSAs typically cover your spouse and dependent children, while Dependent Care FSAs have specific age and relationship requirements.
Why?
IRS regulations determine who qualifies as an eligible dependent for different benefits:
- Health FSAs, Limited Purpose FSAs, and Health Savings Accounts follow the IRS definition for tax dependents, which generally includes your spouse and children under 26
- Dependent Care FSAs define dependents as children under 13 or adults unable to care for themselves. To qualify, the dependent must reside with the benefit holder.
Common questions
Can I request a card for my spouse or dependent to use?
Yes, all accounts can request up to three physical cards to be used by you, your spouse, or any eligible dependents. All physical cards will be issued in your name (as the cardholder associated with the account), but your spouse or additional qualifying dependent will be able to use it as needed.
Additionally, your spouse or dependents can add your virtual or physical card details to their mobile wallets for use online or anywhere that accepts contactless payments. See more here: How to manage your virtual card(s) on your mobile wallet
What if my dependent's eligibility changes?
You must report changes in dependent eligibility within 30 days. Events that may change a dependent's eligibility include:
- Children turning 13 (for Dependent Care FSA)
- Changes in custody arrangements
- Marriage or divorce
- Changes in a dependent's ability to care for themselves
- Death of a dependent
Do I need to verify my dependents' eligibility?
Yes, you may need to provide documentation to verify dependent eligibility at time of enrollment. This might include:
- Birth certificates for children
- Marriage certificates for spouses
- Legal custody agreements
- Documentation of medical conditions for disabled dependents
- School records for full-time students