topic Dependent FSA at preschool kindergarten in Deductions & credits

Dependent FSA at preschool kindergarten

Spouse1234 — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 04:16:38 GMT

For my third child, who is now 5, I have successfully submitted dependent care FSA claims for her for several years as she attends pre-school. She turned 5 in October, so this is her last year of pre-school before she enters public school kindergarten next year.

However, this year, the dependent care FSA is denying the claim. They say because the receipt says "Kindergarten Full Day 5 Days Fee," even though this place (Goddard School) is a well known pre-school.

When my oldest was in this class years ago, it looks like the class was called Pre-Kindergarten.

What should I do?

Re: Dependent FSA at preschool kindergarten

Cynthiad66 — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 16:46:55 GMT

It depends. Before and after-school care can qualify for the Dependent care deduction. If you use the school for before and aftercare, the amounts spent most likely include both school and care. Ask the school if the amounts include daycare and if could they provide a breakdown. Expenses for kindergarten and higher do not qualify for the Child Care Deduction.

If you can provide the daycare portion, from The Goddard School, you may be able to resubmit a claim to your FSA.

For more details click here: What qualifies for Child and Dependent Care Credit

Re: Dependent FSA at preschool kindergarten

Spouse1234 — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 19:41:32 GMT

Thanks for your reply. I got the pre-school to change the receipt so it says Pre-K for the whole amount.

This is not a kindergarten, even though they call it that. Next year (this fall) she'll start kindergarten in the public schools.