Unlock Your FSA: The Parent's Guide to Reimbursable Summer Camp
You might be sitting on a "coupon" that cuts your camp costs by up to 40%. It's called a Dependent Care FSA, and if you have one, you can unlock major savings on your child's tuition.
Whether you've already booked your spot or are just browsing, here is everything you need to know to make your dollar go further.
1. What is an FSA? (The "Tax-Free" Loophole)
A Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA) is a benefit many employers offer. It lets you set aside money from your paycheck before taxes are taken out to pay for childcare and camps.
Here is the simple math:
Imagine you want to spend $100 on camp.
Without an FSA:
You earn the money, the government takes ~$30 in taxes, and you're left with $70. You have to earn more just to pay that $100 bill.
With an FSA:
You take that $100 straight from your salary and pay for camp. No taxes.
By using an FSA, you are essentially saving whatever your tax rate is (usually 20% to 40%)!
2026 Update
If you've used FSAs before, you might remember a $5,000 limit. Good news: for 2026, the limit has increased to $7,500 per household. That covers a lot more weeks of camp!
2. Does Creator Camp Count?
YES!
The IRS allows you to use these funds for "Day Camps" if the primary purpose is to care for your child while you work.
Eligible:
All of our in-person 3-Day and 2-Day camps (YouTube Creators, Minecraft Modders, etc.).
The Rule:
Your child must be under 13.
Overnight camps are not eligible. Since Creator Camp specializes in day programs, you are in the clear!
3. "I Already Paid!" (Don't Panic)
Many parents worry because they have already bought their camps to secure a spot, but the camps aren't until July. You did not miss out.
You can absolutely claim the discount retroactively. The key is that you just have to wait until your child actually attends the camp to get reimbursed. (We'll explain why in the steps below).
4. The 3-Step Easy Guide to Claiming
You don't need to be a tax expert. Just follow these three steps.
Step 1: Register and Pay Now
Spots fill up fast (we had nearly 5000 parents on the waitlist this year).
Action:
Go to creatorcamp.org, pick your camp, and pay with your personal credit card.
Why not use the FSA card? You can try, but it might get declined. FSA rules say you can't use the funds until the "service is provided" (i.e., summer). Paying with your own card now ensures you lock in your spot. You'll pay yourself back later!
Step 2: Enjoy the Summer
Drop your child off. Let them learn to animate, code, and create.
Important:
Keep your registration email!
Step 3: File the Claim (The Payday)
Once the camp week is finished, log into your employee benefits portal and submit your claim. You will need a proper receipt.
What your receipt needs to show:
- Provider: Creator Camp
- Date of Service: The actual dates your child was at camp (e.g., July 14–16).
- Amount Paid: The total cost.
- Tax ID (EIN): 87-2216917.
Pro Tip: If you submit your receipt in February for a camp in July, it will be rejected. Wait until the camp happens in July, then hit submit. The money will be deposited back into your account, tax-free.
Summary Checklist
- ✓ Check if your employer offers a Dependent Care FSA.
- ✓ Register early to save your spot (use your regular card).
- ✓ Check that your child is under 13.
- ✓ Have an amazing summer!
- ✓ Submit your receipt after camp ends to get your cash back.
That's it! You get the savings, and your child gets to launch their creative journey. It's a win-win.