Paying waitlist and registration fees through Kinside

Find answers to the top questions about paying a fee on Kinside

Can I trust Kinside?

At Kinside, trust is our top priority. This applies to making sure we only include quality preschools and daycares in our membership via our rigorous safety vetting process, as well as guaranteeing secure payments. As a registered payment processor, Kinside uses best-in-class security tools and practices to maintain the highest levels of protection. Data is always encrypted. 

What methods of payment are accepted?

Kinside accepts bank transfers by connecting directly to your bank account, as well as DCFSA debit cards, and credit cards. Getting started is quick and easy with instant authentication of bank accounts and the ability to connect with any bank or credit union in the U.S.. We use best-in-class security protocols and your payment data is always encrypted and stored safely.

Why are you charging me a service fee?

Similar to all other online and credit payment services, we incur processing fees from Visa, MasterCard and banks.  Our service fees cover the basics, so that we can keep serving our customers with the highest quality at the lowest rates possible.

We love clarity, so here’s the breakdown: 

  • For parents: Credit and debit card payments (including FSA debit cards) incur a fee of 3% to cover our payment processing costs, while payments sent through bank deposits are fee-free. 

How can I use my DCFSA?

Each FSA administrator has their own portal and process for reimbursement, so it’s important to refer to your account plan for details. Things to look for include:

  • Pay through Kinside — If your administrator integrates with Kinside, we’ve made it easier for you to pay your child care provider through your Kinside account. 
  • DCFSA Debit Card — Most plans provide a debit card to pay your care provider using your FSA funds. If, for example, Navia is your administrator, you have a DCFSA debit card.
  • Reimbursement — Many plans allow you to pay for your dependent care out of pocket and then submit a claim for reimbursement
    • In order to be reimbursed, submit copies of receipts per plan instructions.
    • Reimbursements may be sent to you via check or direct deposit.
    • You typically have until the end of the year to submit all your claims and some plans may offer a grace period. 
    • In some instances, claims may be approved for future care. 

Learn more about Dependent Care FSAs here.

How do I know how much is in my DCFSA?

You can login to your FSA administrator to check your DCFSA balance before submitting a payment via Kinside. It’s important that you only use the balance on your card. If there is insufficient balance, your transaction will be declined.

Who can I pay?  

Kinside allows payments to preschools and daycares who are licensed by their state. This includes those that are exempt from licensing, such as forest schools or religious affiliations.

Why did my payment go to Kinside? I was trying to pay my child care provider.

Rest assured, your payment is going directly to the child care provider.  Since Kinside is the payment processor, we will show up on your records. You’ll receive an email confirmation once your provider has received your payment, typically in 3-5 business days.

Looking for more?

Reach out to Kinside Concierge for more assistance. Email us at concierge@kinside.com or use the chat window on the bottom right of the app to contact a Concierge.