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Don't understand the difference between HSA, FSA, & HRA?
Our friend, Michelle, is here to explain!



How do taxes affect your Benefits Accounts?
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) are all tax-advantaged accounts designed to help individuals save for healthcare expenses. HSAs are available to individuals with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) and offer triple tax benefits: contributions are tax-deductible, earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are also tax-free. FSAs are employer-sponsored accounts that allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for healthcare expenses, reducing taxable income. However, they typically have a "use-it-or-lose-it" rule, meaning funds must be used within the plan year. HRAs are employer-funded accounts that reimburse employees for medical expenses, and the contributions are tax-free. Unlike FSAs and HSAs, HRAs are not owned by the employee, and the employer has control over the funds. All three accounts help reduce taxable income and lower the overall cost of healthcare, making them valuable tools for managing medical expenses.
The IRS defines the types of expenses that you can pay for with these accounts.
HSA's
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Contributions are tax-deductible or pre-tax
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Funds grow tax-free
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Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free
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Unused funds and interest roll over year to year
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You own the HSA and keep it even if you change plans or retire
FSA's
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Contributions are tax-advantaged
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Funds don't grow over time
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Reimbursements for qualified medical expenses are tax-free
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Money must be used by the end of the plan year
HRA's
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Contributions from your employer are tax-advantaged
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Reimbursements for qualified medical expenses are tax-free
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Depending on how your employer set it up, you may need to spend the money before the year ends