Can I change my Flexible Spending Account election once the plan year starts?

Once you make an election, you may not change your election unless you experience an IRS “Change in Status” or “qualified life event.” If you do experience a qualified life event or change in status (such as marriage, adoption, divorce, etc.) your election change must be consistent with the Change in Status event. For example, if you adopt a child then you may increase your Dependent Care FSA election due to the newly eligible dependent.

Do I have to keep the same FSA elections each plan year?

No. Each year you will have to re-enroll before the beginning of the Plan Year. At that time, you will have the opportunity to evaluate the need to participate in the Plan as well as budget for all health care and/or dependent care expenses. You may decide to keep the same election, change your election or in some cases waive participation.