Diversity, equity and inclusion training covers courses, workshops and certificates on topics such as inclusive leadership, cross-cultural communication and reducing bias in hiring. Company-wide programs are usually bought centrally, but many employees want to go further on their own. An LSA category lets people choose learning that fits their role or community involvement, alongside whatever the organization already provides.
DEI learning employees often pay for
This category typically covers learning an employee picks for themselves, beyond any required training. Courses can be self-paced online or taught live.
- Online certificate courses in inclusive leadership
- Workshops on inclusive hiring and interviewing
- Cross-cultural communication courses for global teams
- Registration for conferences on workplace inclusion
- Accessibility and disability inclusion training
- Books and course materials assigned for a program
- Mentoring and allyship skills workshops
To compare this with other popular categories, read our breakdown of LSA eligible expenses.
Setting up DEI training in your plan
Separate required and optional training
Pay for mandatory programs centrally and use the LSA for self-directed learning. Employees then won't spend their own allowance on something the company requires.
Decide where it lives
DEI courses can sit in a learning, career or social category. Pick one so employees know where to look and reviewers apply consistent rules.
Ask ERG leaders for input
Employee resource group leads often know which courses and conferences their members want. Their suggestions can shape the examples in your plan guide.
Where DEI training coverage has limits
- Training the company requires for all employees is usually paid for directly by the employer, not through individual LSA funds.
- Travel and lodging for conferences are often excluded or capped even when registration is covered.
- Degree programs and long academic courses may belong in a tuition assistance program instead.
- Some employers ask that providers be established training organizations rather than individuals without a track record.
- Coaching or consulting bought for a whole team usually needs a company budget rather than individual LSA claims.
Who uses a DEI learning benefit
Managers who want to run fairer interviews or lead a more varied team are frequent users. Members and leaders of employee resource groups often take courses so they can run programs well. People who work across countries use cross-cultural training to avoid misunderstandings with colleagues and clients. Some employees simply want to learn more than an annual session covers, and a personal budget lets them pick the format and depth that suits them. Many employers pair it with broader programs, such as employee resource groups.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my LSA for diversity, equity and inclusion training?
It depends on your plan, but employers with a learning or social wellbeing category often include it. Self-selected courses, workshops and certificates are the usual examples. Required company training is normally paid for separately.
Can ERG leaders use LSA funds for training related to that role?
Many plans allow it if the training fits a covered category. Some employers fund ERG programs from a separate budget instead, so ask your HR team where these costs should go.
Are DEI conference tickets covered?
Registration fees are often allowed in plans that include this category. Travel, hotels and meals are commonly excluded or handled under a separate travel policy.
Does the training have to relate to my current job?
Not always. LSAs are meant for personal choice, so many plans don't require a direct link to your role. Some employers do limit the category to learning with a workplace focus, and your plan documents will say so.
LSA funds are generally treated as taxable income. Learn more about how LSA reimbursements are taxed.
This content is general information, not medical, legal, tax, or financial advice. Employer plan terms determine eligibility, and requirements may vary by location.
