Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): FSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax money for medical expenses. The Dependent Child Account Program (DCAP) sets aside pre-tax dollars to pay for things like childcare or to place an elderly parent in a day facility while you are working. During Open Enrollment you can choose which of these two programs you want to contribute to.

Community and governmental financial resources: My Secure Advantage has developed a list of governmental resources that provide financial relief to families and need. Visit this blog post for a review of these resources. 

If you could use help locating daycares, or if you or someone in your family would benefit from mental health support, check out the resources below.

• Making Life Easier: Daycares in King County remain open at the time of publishing. If your job requires you to telecommute, and your children are ages five and under without a regular day or childcare center, contact Making Life Easier (MLE). MLE is a free resource for all King County employees that can assist you in locating and coordinating childcare. MLE also offers assistance identifying options for elder care support, as well as free counseling to anyone who shares your address. For more information, visit the Making Life Easier website.
• Therapy via telehealth: Regence and Kaiser therapists and other healthcare providers can be accessed from the comfort and safety of your home via telehealth. For more information about telehealth, visit the King County telehealth webpage. For more information about continuing medical and other benefits following lay-off, visit the King County Benefits webpage.
• Mental Health Resource Guide: For a more comprehensive list of King County employee and community mental health resources, review the Mental Health Resource Guide via this link.

Here are additional resources from the Balanced You blog: 

• Resources for parents and caregivers during the pandemic can be found here.
• An on-demand webinar with local parenting coach Sarina Atkin can be found here.
• Tips on caring for children during the pandemic can be found here.
• Tips and resources for caregivers of adults can be found here.