Many employer FSA balances must be used by December 31 or the plan's deadline. Unused money above your plan's limit is lost. Check your own plan's rules first - plans differ.
Know your plan (this week)
Log in to your FSA portal and write your current balance: $________
Find your plan's deadline: Dec 31, a grace period (often to mid-March), or a run-out period.
Find your plan's carryover limit, if any (for 2026 plans, the IRS maximum carryover into 2027 is $680).
Confirm your plan year end date - not every plan follows the calendar year.
Spend it on time, on eligible care
Book dental, vision, and medical appointments early - December calendars fill up.
Refill eligible prescriptions and stock standard eligible supplies.
Check the official eligible-items list before buying anything unusual.
Keep every receipt and explanation of benefits (EOB).
Submit and verify
Submit all claims before the deadline, not on the last day.
Verify each claim shows as approved in the portal.
Screenshot your final balance for your records.
Reference: IRS Publication 969, Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans. Verify current rules at irs.gov and with your plan administrator before acting.
Disclaimer: This checklist is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Always do your own research and consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions. FINVYN — Make Money Make Sense.