125 Pre-Tax Programs

A Pre-Tax Program is a benefit plan that you sign up for and fund through payroll deductions. Contributions are pulled from your paycheck before taxes. The County of Santa Cruz offers four Pre-Tax Programs.

Pre-Tax Medical Premiums (formerly known as H-Care)

Pre-tax medical premiums allow you to pay for health care premiums before taxes are taken out, reducing your overall taxable income. Each medical benefit plan is available in both a Pre-Tax and a Post-Tax option. Pre-tax benefit plan selections can only be initiated as a new enrollment or during an open enrollment period.

Health Care Flexible Spending Account (Health FSA)

Health FSA allows you to set aside pre-tax earnings to pay for eligible out-of-pocket health care expenses. You can contribute up to the IRS limit in pre-tax dollars and the full amount is available to use from the start of your enrollment date. You can use these funds via the issued pre-funded credit card or pay yourself back via the claim form on eligible out-of-pocket expenses. Administered by Inspira. Enrollment in this program is subject to Open Enrollment each plan year or a qualifying event.

Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (D-Care FSA)

D-Care allows you to set aside pre-tax earnings to pay for eligible childcare expenses and other dependent care costs that make it possible for you to work. Administered by Inspira. Enrollment in this program is subject to Open Enrollment each plan year or a qualifying event.

457 Deferred Compensation (MissionSquare Retirement)