A Dependent Care Account is a type of flexible spending account that allows employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible dependent care expenses. These expenses can include costs for daycare, preschool, or after-school programs for children under the age of 13, as well as care for disabled dependents of any age. By using this account, employees can reduce their taxable income, which can lead to significant tax savings. To participate in a Dependent Care Account, employees typically need to enroll during their employer's open enrollment period. Contributions are deducted from their paycheck before taxes are applied, making it a convenient way to budget for dependent care costs. However, it's important to note that funds in the account must be used within the plan year, or they may be forfeited.