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Eligibility



  1. Am I eligible for both the DepCare FSA and ASE Childcare reimbursement program benefits?

Academic Student Employees covered by Article 4 of the UAW collective bargaining agreement are eligible to participate in both. However, you can not submit a claim for the same expense under both programs.

  1. The DepCare FSA SPD says an eligible dependent includes a child under age 13. What happens when my child reaches age 13?

Unless your child is incapable of self-care as defined by the IRS, dependent care expenses incurred on and after the day your child becomes age 13 are generally not eligible for DepCare FSA reimbursement. See IRS Publication 503 for examples.

It's important that you review and, if necessary, adjust or cancel your DepCare FSA contribution when your child reaches age 13. You must adjust your contribution amount or cancel your participation within 31 days after your child's birthday. Unless you adjust your contribution amount, your current contributions will continue for the remainder of the Plan year, even though expenses incurred after your child reaches age 13 cannot be reimbursed.

  1. Are schooling/educational expenses eligible for reimbursement?

Generally not, but there are some exceptions, usually for children enrolled in programs for children not yet eligible for kindergarten.

For children in kindergarten or above, you can only request reimbursement for costs associated with before- and/or after-school day care, including day care with an educational component. See IRS Publication 503 for more information or contact your tax advisor.

  1. If I have two different appointments and the combined appointments are at least 43.75 percent, can I enroll?

Yes, if both appointments otherwise qualify for participation in the DepCare FSA plan.

  1. If I have employment as an ASE/GSR or even as a non-ASE/GSR during the summer, can I claim benefits for that period?

Yes, if you are enrolled in the DepCare FSA and you have eligible expenses and continuous employment from the spring.