How can an HSA save you money?
Asked by: Dr. Kale Kuhlman MD | Last update: June 13, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (46 votes)
How does an HSA save me money?
HSA tax benefits
Contributions to an HSA are federally tax-deductible, reducing your taxable income. Depending on where you live, you may also get a break on state income taxes. Assets in an HSA can potentially grow federal tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified out-of-pocket expensesii are also tax free.
What is the downside of an HSA?
Drawbacks of HSAs include tax penalties for nonmedical expenses before age 65, and contributions made to the HSA within six months of applying for Social Security benefits may be subject to penalties. HSAs have fewer limitations and more tax advantages than flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
What is the main benefit of using a HSA?
“HSAs are intended to help you save pre-tax or tax-deductible dollars to pay for qualified medical expenses — both now and in the future — that aren't covered by insurance,” says Jennifer Goldsmith, managing director and head of Health Benefit Solutions at Bank of America.
Are HSAs actually worth it?
Yes an HSA is absolutely worth it even if you don't go to the doctor often. You get the money from your employer deposited into your HSA tax-free. You can dedicate a very small portion ($5) of your paycheck if you wanted to, and most employers will contribute to your HSA as well - that's free money.
New HSA Rules in 2025 You Need to Know
How much will HSA reduce my taxes?
For example, If you're in the 24% marginal federal income tax bracket, every $1,000 you contribute to an HSA saves you $240 in income taxes. A family contributing the current (2023) maximum to an HSA in the 24% marginal income tax bracket can save up to $1,860.
Is it better to max out HSA or 401k?
First off, most experts would recommend maxing out HSA contributions before maxing out 401(k) contributions because of the tax advantages that come with the HSA. There's no minimum age for HSA fund distributions, so when you need it to spend money on health care, it's got your back.
What is the 12 month rule for HSA?
It means you must remain eligible for the HSA until December 31 of the following year. The only exceptions are death or disability. If you violate the testing period requirement, your ineligible contributions become taxable income.
Can I use HSA for gym membership?
Gym memberships. While some companies and private insurers may offer discounts on gym memberships, you generally can't use your FSA or HSA account to pay for gym or health club memberships. An exception to that rule would be if your doctor deems fitness medically necessary for your recovery or treatment.
Should you use HSA money or save it?
All this said, like many accounts, the trick for HSA success is achieving balance -- save when you can, spend when you need. Remember, these tax-free funds are there to promote long-term health. As an example, other than for health insurance premiums, you can use your HSA for almost anything medical.
Do I ever lose my HSA money?
Myth #2: If I don't spend all my funds this year, I lose it. Reality: HSA funds never expire. When it comes to the HSA, there's no use-it-or-lose-it rule. Unlike Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds, you keep your HSA dollars forever, even if you change employers, health plans, or retire.
Is it better to have an HSA or copay?
If you don't have an HDHP, have a family, and require frequent diagnostic medical care, a copay plan may be a better option. Neither an HSA or copay plan is better than the other; you just need to decide which plan meets all of your needs and will benefit you the most.
Can I use HSA for dental?
Your HSA also covers expenses for standard dental cleanings and dental check-ups. One thing to keep in mind is that some of these procedures may have a co-payment, so it's important that you check with your dental insurance provider to find out exactly what you'll have to pay out of pocket.
What are the disadvantages of an HSA?
The main downside of an HSA is that you must have a high-deductible health insurance plan to get one. A health insurance deductible is the amount of money you must pay out of pocket each year before your insurance plan benefits begin.
How does an HSA work for dummies?
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a type of personal savings account you can set up to pay certain health care costs. An HSA allows you to put money away and withdraw it tax free, as long as you use it for qualified medical expenses, like deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and more.
Does your money grow in a HSA?
An HSA could be an effective tool to help you accumulate money on a tax-advantaged basis to pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses. When you invest the funds in your HSA, you give your money a chance to grow. Any investment gains in an HSA aren't taxed, which could give your money potential to accumulate.
Is the Apple Watch HSA eligible?
Why other fitness trackers don't qualify. Even though Fitbits and Apple Watches measure important health data, they currently do not qualify for HSA reimbursement, as they are considered for general health use and not intended to treat or manage a specific medical condition.
Can I use HSA for vitamins?
In general, vitamins are not considered an HSA eligible expense unless they are prescribed by a doctor for a specific medical condition. For example, if your doctor prescribes prenatal vitamins during pregnancy or recommends vitamin D supplements to treat a deficiency, those could be eligible expenses under your HSA.
Will HSA pay for massage?
Your HSA can pay for massage therapy, though you'll likely need a letter of medical necessity (LMN) from your doctor. An LMN states what condition the treatment is for, how many sessions you need, and any other relevant details. An HSA may also be used on alternative or holistic treatments, such as: Massage therapy.
What happens when my HSA balance is $0?
Will my HSA account remain open if I have a $0 balance? The account will remain open if you have a $0 balance. There is no fee assessed to you for having a $0 balance.
Is toothpaste HSA eligible?
Toothpaste is not eligible for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA) or a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).
Is HSA worth it?
A health savings account (HSA) isn't only for emergency medical savings. It can also help pay for qualified medical expenses and even help you save for retirement. Thanks to multiple tax advantages, you may get more out of your money now and in the future. One key to maximizing your HSA is contributing early and often.
Is there any reason not to max out HSA?
Sacrificing other financial goals: If you have the spare money, there's nothing wrong with maxing out your HSA. But if you're behind on other financial goals, like paying off student loans or saving for a down payment, you might want to tackle those first and make smaller HSA contributions.
At what age should I stop contributing to my 401k?
Most experts recommend contributing to your 401(k) for at least as long as you're working.
Should I choose HSA or Roth IRA first?
If you have to choose, prioritize the HSA for its triple tax benefits, especially if you anticipate significant healthcare costs in retirement. However, if you expect higher taxes in the future, a Roth IRA could be more advantageous.