HSA Guide
What is an HSA Account and How Does it Work?
Published August 16, 2024
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Get the appShort answer: An HSA is a tax-advantaged account used with a High Deductible Health Plan to save and pay for qualified medical expenses tax-free.
What is an HSA and its role
Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged account that allows individuals to save money for medical expenses. It works in conjunction with a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), providing a way to save and pay for qualified medical expenses tax-free.
Here's how an HSA works:
How HSAs work with HDHPs
- Individuals with an HDHP can open an HSA account.
- Money can be contributed to the HSA account, either by the individual or their employer.
- Contributions are tax-deductible, meaning they can lower your taxable income.
- The funds in the HSA can be used to pay for qualified medical expenses, such as doctor visits, prescriptions, and more.
- Any unused funds in the HSA rollover year after year, unlike flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
- HSAs are portable, so if you change jobs or health insurance plans, you can take your HSA with you.
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a powerful financial tool designed to help individuals manage their healthcare costs while promoting smart saving strategies. Coupled with a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), an HSA offers considerable tax advantages and flexibility.