Hi, you may be wondering, What Are HSA Funds?

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged medical savings account designed to help individuals and families with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) cover out-of-pocket medical expenses.

HSAs offer a triple tax benefit:

Contributions are tax-deductible

Funds grow tax-free through interest or investments

Withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified medical expenses.

Who Can Open an HSA?

To be eligible for an HSA, you must be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). Once eligible, contributions can be made via payroll deductions (pre-tax) or personal deposits (which may be tax-deductible).

2025 Contribution Limits (Updated from 2023)

Individual coverage: Up to $4,150

Family coverage: Up to $8,300

Catch-up contribution (age 55+): Additional $1,000

Note: Always confirm with the IRS or your benefits administrator, as limits are subject to annual adjustments.

What Can HSA Funds Be Used For?

HSA funds can be used to pay for a wide range of qualified medical expenses, including:

Health insurance deductibles and co-payments

Prescription medications

Vision and dental care

Mental health services

Chiropractic care and acupuncture

Medical supplies and equipment

Payments can be made using HSA debit cards, checks, or online bill pay. It's important to keep receipts for all HSA-related expenses in case you need to verify that the funds were used properly.

HSAs as a Retirement Tool

Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), HSA funds roll over year to year and are owned by the account holder. Funds can also be invested, similar to an IRA, and grow tax-free. After age 65, HSA funds can be withdrawn for any purpose (not just medical) without penalty—though non-medical withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income.

Summary

HSAs are a powerful tool that combine healthcare spending flexibility with long-term retirement savings potential. If you’re enrolled in an HDHP, contributing to an HSA can help you manage today’s healthcare costs while planning for the future.