Each spending account helps you save in a different way. Ask your employer about what kinds of spending accounts are available to you and keep exploring to learn more about each one.
Pay for care pre-tax
Most spending accounts let you set aside pre-tax money to pay for health and child-care and even commuter expenses. This lowers your total income, so you also pay less income tax.
How much should I be saving
Learn how to best plan for unexpected out-of-pocket costs, like deductibles, copays, coinsurance and prescriptions.
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The right insurance plan
Knowing what features of a plan matter most to you can mean the difference between picking a plan you love and one you can barely live with.
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Managing health care finances
Understand how your overall health care finances play an important role in achieving your overall financial wellness.
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Spending Account Types
Spending Account Types
Each spending account helps you save in a different way. Ask your employer about what kinds of spending accounts are available to you and keep exploring to learn more about each one.
Spending Account Comparison
HSA |
HRA |
FSA |
|
---|---|---|---|
Pay for deductibles/copays/coinsurance |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Pay for dental/vision/prescription expenses |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Pay for dependent care |
No |
No |
Yes |
Account owned by |
You |
Employer |
Employer |
Invest money for future expenses |
Yes |
No |
No |
Funded by |
You2 |
Employer |
You2 |
You are required to have a Qualified High-Deductible Health Plan |
Yes |
No |
No |
Money is transferable if you change jobs/change plans/retire |
Yes |
No |
No |
Can reduce your taxable income |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Debit card available |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Choosing a spending account
Most spending accounts let you choose how much money you want to set aside for health care, childcare, and even commuter expenses. Then, that money can be taken out of your paycheck before taxes. This lowers your total income, so you pay less income tax.
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Pay for it pre-tax
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2In some cases, your employer may contribute. The IRS sets different limits on contributions to HSAs and FSAs.