|
![]()
Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of
Macromedia's Flash Player. Get the latest Flash player
Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of
Macromedia's Flash Player. Get the latest Flash player
|
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About HSAsUtilizing a health savings account (HSA) alongside a qualified high deductible health plan (HDHP) is a great way to save money on your health care costs. Along with saving money, your HSA dollars work for you by earning interest. And, money you contribute to an HSA is tax-deductible going in, and tax-free when withdrawn for a qualified medical expense. Check out these frequently asked questions to get a jump-start on understanding your HSA:1. How do I start a HSA? First, you have to enroll in a qualified HDHP. For 2008, in order to qualify to open an HSA, your HDHP minimum deductible must be at least $1,100 (self-only coverage) or $2,200 (family coverage). The annual out-of-pocket (including deductibles and co-pays) cannot exceed $5,600 (self-only coverage) or $11,200 (family coverage). HDHPs can have first dollar coverage (no deductible) for preventive care and apply higher out-of-pocket limits (and co pays & coinsurance) for non-network services. If you think you have a high-deductible health insurance plan then you can contact your insurance company, or a number of private insured banks and credit unions locally or online to find out about setting up a HSA. 2. What if I switch jobs, do I lose my HSA money? No. The health savings account is yours to keep. Whatever money you, or even your employer, contribute to your HSA you keep, just as you would in a savings account. Even if you don't use all your HSA money in a given year, the remaining money will roll-over to use the following year. 3. Do I pay taxes on the money deposited into my HSA? No, the money flows into your HSA tax-free if your employer allows payroll deductions. If not, you can take a deduction for the money you contributed to your HSA when you file your taxes. When you withdraw money to pay for any qualifying expenses, it is withdrawn tax-free. 4. What are some examples of HSA qualifying expenses? Some examples include: prescription medicines and eye glasses, office visit co-pays, chiropractors, dentists, orthodontists, over-the-counter meds such as aspirin and antacids, birth-control (over-the-counter or prescription), and laser eye surgery to name a few. You can find a list of qualified expenses on the IRS website at www.irs.gov. 5. What happens if I lose my health insurance? Once you have money in your HSA, you can continue to use it even if you are no longer covered by a HDHP, but you will not be able to make additional contributions. 6. Can I use my HSA money to pay for my health insurance premiums? HSA money can be used to pay for health insurance premiums while you are collecting federal or state unemployment benefits. You can also use your HSA money to pay for COBRA premiums. 7. What if I use my HSA money for non-qualified expenses? Money distributed for non-qualified expenses is taxable as ordinary income and a 10% tax penalty is charged. (If over age 65, distributions for non-qualified expenses are only subject to income taxes.) 8. How much can I contribute to my HSA account? For 2008, a single person could contribute up to $2,900 per year and a family up to $5,800 per year. This amount changes yearly. 9. Can my HSA money be invested? Yes. While policies vary by HSA custodian, most will offer a selection of investments to choose from once your account balance exceeds a minimum level. 10. When I die, is my HSA money lost? No. The HSA account is transferred to the named beneficiary. If the beneficiary is your spouse, the account stays intact and can be used for qualified medical expenses. If the beneficiary is not the surviving spouse, the HSA ceases to be an HSA and is subject to income tax. |