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When Does My FSA Expire? 2026 Deadlines Explained

Your FSA likely expires December 31, 2026 — but you might have a grace period or carryover. Here's how to find out.

When Does My FSA Expire?

Most Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) operate on a calendar year basis, with funds expiring on December 31, 2026. However, your employer may offer one of two extensions:

Grace Period

Some plans offer a grace period of up to 2.5 months (through March 15, 2027) to use remaining funds from the previous plan year.

Carryover

Other plans allow you to carry over up to $640 of unused funds into the next plan year.

Important: Your plan can offer a grace period OR a carryover, but not both. Check with your plan administrator to find out which applies to you.

What Happens to Unused FSA Money?

Under the “use it or lose it” rule, any FSA funds you don’t spend by your deadline are forfeited back to your employer. This is why planning ahead matters.

Don’t Lose Your Money

Use our balance spend-down tool to get personalized product recommendations based on your remaining balance.

Don't lose your money

Find out what you can buy before your deadline

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