HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

How Do HSA Accounts Work?

Published July 10, 2023

Check eligibility on the gobrowse 7,000+ HSA-eligible products in the free app.

Get the app
Short answer: HSAs help you save for qualified medical expenses using pre-tax contributions with tax-deductible contributions, tax-free earnings, and tax-free withdrawals, if you have an HDHP and are not enrolled in Medicare.

How HSAs work and the key benefits

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a powerful financial tool that can help you save for medical expenses while enjoying tax benefits. These accounts work by allowing individuals to set aside pre-tax money for qualified medical expenses. Here's how HSA accounts work:

1. Eligibility: To open an HSA, you must have a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and not be enrolled in Medicare.

2. Contributions: You can contribute to your HSA through payroll deductions or direct contributions. The money you contribute is tax-deductible.

3. Tax Benefits: Contributions are tax-deductible, earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.

4. Savings: The money in your HSA can be used to pay for a wide range of medical expenses not covered by your insurance, including co-pays, deductibles, vision, and dental care.

5. Investing: Some HSA providers allow you to invest your funds for potential growth over time.

6. Portability: Your HSA is yours to keep even if you change jobs or health insurance plans.

7. Rollover: Any unused funds in your HSA at the end of the year roll over to the next year, unlike a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Overall, HSA accounts work by providing a tax-advantaged way to save for healthcare expenses both now and in the future. They offer flexibility, tax benefits, and the opportunity to grow your savings over time.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are not only a smart way to set aside money for healthcare expenses, but they also come with incredible tax advantages that can help you save significantly in the long run.

Free App

Browse 7,000+ HSA-Eligible Products

Search by symptom, get price alerts, and build your HSA shopping list — all in the free app.

← Back to all articles