A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a pre-tax benefit account that can be opened in conjunction with a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and used to pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses for you and your dependents.
Unlike some pre-tax benefit accounts, you own your HSA outright, so the money never expires and you maintain full ownership even after you leave your current employer. You can use HSA money to pay medical bills as they come up, or save it and use it exclusively for medical costs in retirement.
HSAs are triple tax-advantaged. That means you get:
- Tax-free contributions. HSA contributions don’t have taxes withheld so the entire amount goes to your HSA.
- Tax-free growth. Whether you keep it as cash or invest it for the long term, you won’t pay taxes on any earnings.
- Tax-free withdrawals. Unlike accounts where you pay taxes when you take out money, HSA money is tax-free to withdraw and use for medical expenses.
Who is eligible for an HSA?
If you are enrolled in an HDHP you are eligible for an HSA.
What are the broad categories that are HSA-eligible?
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Pharmacy