The open enrollment period for Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) is approaching. During the enrollment period, employees can enroll in or amend their contributions for the future year for FSAs and HSAs, which they can use to pay for their healthcare-related expenses. We dedicated today’s episode to taking a deep dive into several vital facts related to FSA, Dependent care FSA, HSA, and the numerous ways to maximize your workplace benefits under each of them. 

 

Show Notes

[04:37] Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Grant explains what FSA means, how it works, and who can contribute.  

[07:55] Plan the Health Expenses – Why it is essential to forecast the health expenses to pay them on a tax-deferred basis through FSA versus paying out of pocket. 

[09:18] Spend the Fund at Pharmacy – Beneficial features of FSAs, such as the ability to spend the funds at a pharmacy, and why having this option is significant. 

[10:10] Dependent Care FSA – Grant explains the purpose of a Dependent Care FSA, its benefits, and several facts to keep in mind if you are considering using one. 

[15:30] HSA – How to contribute to and HSA and the fantastic tax benefits and investment opportunities that come along with it 

[19:12] Eligibility for HSA – Grant explains the eligibility requirements for HSAs, including having a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). 

[26:00] Connection to the employer – Grant discusses the connection between your HSA and your employer, and why employees can take their balance with them when they’re switching employers. 

 

Resources

What Is a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?
investopedia.com/terms/f/flexiblespendingaccount.asp 

 

What Is a Health Savings Account (HSA)?
investopedia.com/terms/h/hsa.asp