The cost of healthcare has grown exponentially over the last two decades. For context, healthcare spending rose from $1.4 trillion in 2000 to a whopping $3.8 trillion. Furthermore, it is expected to increase, touching $6.2 trillion in 2028 according to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. 

Saving money is more crucial than ever, but deciding on healthcare plans can be tricky. There are two types of accounts – Health Savings Accounts (H.S.A) and Flexible Spending Accounts (F.S.A) – that can help you with medical bills and savings tax. 

Both accounts offer benefits, but understanding their features is crucial to making the best decision for your financial and healthcare needs.

Understanding F.S.A. and H.S.A.

An F.S.A. is a type of savings account available only via employers. It allows you to set aside a fixed amount of pre-tax money for eligible medical expenses. This means you won’t pay taxes on this money, which can result in substantial savings. However, F.S.A. funds generally must be used within the plan year, with a possible grace period or carryover option depending on the employer’s plan. 

An H.S.A., on the other hand, is available to those enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). Like an F.S.A., it allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars but, it also offers a triple tax advantage: contributions are tax-deductible, investment or interest earnings are tax-free, and withdrawals for eligible medical expenses are also tax-free. H.S.As have more than $116 billion, a 500 per cent increase since 2013. Despite this increase, the interest rates remain low, sometimes as low as 0%. Several providers also charge various fees including maintenance fees, outbound transfer fees, account closure fees, etc

Key Differences Between F.S.A. and H.S.A.

1. Eligibility: F.S.A.s are available to employees through their employers. H.S.A.s are only available to those with certain types of highly deductible health plans. H.S.A.s have lower premiums and higher costs.

2. Contribution Limits: As of 2024, the contribution limit for an F.S.A. is $3,200, while for an H.S.A., it is $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for families. The limit for self-coverage is predicted to rise to $4,300, and to $8,550 for family coverage.

3. Fund Rollover: F.S.A. funds typically need to be used within the plan year, although some plans offer a grace period or allow a small carryover amount of up to $550. If unused, the amount can be fortified. H.S.A. funds, however, roll over year after year with no expiration. 

4. Portability: F.S.A. funds are tied to your employee and are not portable. If you leave your job, you may forfeit any unused funds. H.S.A. funds, on the other hand, belong to you and remain with you even if you change jobs or retire.

5. Investment Options: F.S.A. funds do not allow you to invest further. Meanwhile, H.S.A. funds can be invested in various financial instruments like stocks and mutual funds. 

6. Withdrawals: You will not be taxed on H.S.A. amount withdrawal if they are used for a healthcare expense. In case of non-medical costs, there will be a 20% penalty if you are below 65. As for F.S.A., no withdrawals are allowed. 

Which Account Should You Choose?

Choosing between an F.S.A. and an H.S.A. depends on your individual healthcare needs, financial goals, and employment situation. If you have a High Deductible Health Plan, you qualify for an H.S.A. If not, you may be limited to an F.S.A. 

You can also consider estimating your annual healthcare expenses. This will help you set the budget accordingly. If you know your spending capacity, then F.S.A. might be beneficial. However, if are uncertain about your medical costs or other expenses that may incur, H.S.A. could be more germane and flexible.

While both accounts have tax benefits, H.S.A.’s triple tax benefit and investment potential can help you with long-term savings. If you are planning to switch jobs H.S.A.’s portability will work in your favour. For those looking to save for future medical expenses, including retirement healthcare costs, H.S.A. provides a powerful savings vehicle.

In addition to this, please note that you cannot enroll in both plans at a time unless your F.S.A. covers limited expenses. However, you can have both, H.S.A. and dependent F.S.A. simultaneously.

Both F.S.A.s and H.S.A.s have that can save medical expenses and reduce your tax burden. Understand the key differences and benefits that best suit your lifestyle and plans to make an informed decision. 

Please note: Always consider consulting with a financial advisor/expert to ensure you make the best choice.