Flexible Spending Accounts

The state of Illinois provides employees with access to a Flexible Spending Account Program. If you choose to participate, you'll specify a certain amount to be taken from each paycheck and put into an account. The funds are deducted before taxes are taken out, which saves you money.

You can participate in two accounts:

• Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP): for medical, dental, prescription and vision expenses not covered by insurance.
• Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP): for child care expenses and/or adult day care expenses.

Central Management Services provides complete information about the state's Flexible Spending Accounts Program. The program is administered by ConnectYourCare.

How the Program Works

You can enroll in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) during the Benefit Choice period or whenever you experience a qualifying change in status. You'll decide an amount to be taken from each paycheck and put into the account, up to an annual limit. Use the ConnectYourCare savings calculator to see how much you could save by using an FSA.

If you enroll in MCAP, you'll receive a ConnectYourCare debit card you can use to access the funds in your account. Some transactions will require documentation.

You must request claim reimbursements of both MCAP and DCAP funds by a certain date each year.

Resources

The following resources will help you learn more about the FSA Program:

• FSA video from ConnectYourCare
• ConnectYourCare Account FAQ