The desire for financial security is universal. We all want to feel that we can provide for ourselves and our families. One challenge many people face, however, is preparing for the rising costs of healthcare. More than ever before, it’s important to find effective ways to manage your current medical expenses and prepare for the future, too. One popular savings tool is the Health Savings Account (HSA), though many people don’t realize its breadth of advantages. Not only does an HSA offer a tax-advantaged way for people to pay for their healthcare expenses, but it can also be a powerful tool for wealth building when used correctly. Below, we’ll dive into five Health Savings Account advantages to know.
#1. The Triple Tax Advantage
One of the most significant Health Savings Account advantages is that it offers not one, not two, but three tax advantages. You can contribute tax-free dollars to your HSA, your contributions then grow within the account tax-free, and then you’re allowed to withdraw the funds tax-free so long as you’re using them for qualified medical expenses. This unique tax treatment makes HSAs a powerful tool for reducing overall healthcare costs and maximizing savings potential.
The triple tax advantage of HSAs offers a remarkable opportunity to save money while ensuring access to necessary healthcare services. By taking advantage of tax deductions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals, you can significantly reduce the burden of your healthcare expenses over time.
#2. More Flexibility and Control
Another great advantage of the HSA is that it can provide you with greater flexibility and control over your healthcare decisions. Unlike some other healthcare options, HSAs are portable, meaning the account can move with you if you change jobs or health insurance providers. This feature allows you to maintain your HSA and continue saving for future medical expenses, even in the face of employment changes. Additionally, the funds in an HSA roll over from year to year, allowing them to accumulate and grow over time.
Unlike flexible spending accounts (FSAs), which often have “use it or lose it” provisions, HSAs offer the ability to carry over any unused funds into the next year – so you’re not under a ticking clock to spend what you’ve been saving. This flexibility gives you control over your healthcare decisions and, with the ability to accumulate funds over time, you can strategically plan and manage your medical expenses. You can explore various healthcare options, compare costs, and make more informed choices that align with your personal financial goals.
SEE ALSO: SIX WAYS TO PREPARE FOR MEDICAL COSTS IN RETIREMENT
#3. Investment Opportunities
Another of the most notable Health Savings Account advantages is that you can choose how to grow your contributed funds. You can opt to keep your funds in basic interest-bearing accounts, or you can explore the option of investing your HSA funds in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. While both choices come with their own merits, the most suitable option will ultimately depend on your individual circumstances. If you have current ongoing healthcare expenses, then investing your funds is most likely not going to be the best option for you. However, if you’re putting money into an HSA and have no immediate plans for it, then investing those funds may be more beneficial. As with any time you invest, you’ll want to consider your risk tolerance time horizon.
#4. Potentially Reduced Healthcare Costs
It’s no secret that healthcare expenses can be a significant financial burden for individuals and families, but utilizing an HSA allows account holders to lower their healthcare costs in several ways. First, the pre-tax contributions made to an HSA effectively reduce your taxable income, resulting in potential tax savings. Second, you have the ability to shop around for the most cost-effective healthcare services and providers. Additionally, with the transparency and accessibility of healthcare information today, it’s easier than ever for individuals to compare prices, quality of care, and patient reviews. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare, selecting providers that offer the best value for your money.
Lastly, by accumulating funds over time, you can be better prepared to handle any unexpected medical expenses that may arise. In this way, a well-funded HSA can serve as a safety net, reducing the need for costly loans or credit card debt to cover medical emergencies. By proactively saving and planning for potential healthcare needs, you can mitigate the financial stress often associated with unexpected medical events.
#5. Additional Retirement Savings
Among Health Savings Account advantages, this one is a lesser-known benefit. Although any qualified withdrawals from an HSA are tax-free, it’s important to note that using HSA funds for non-qualified expenses incurs income tax and a 20% penalty fee. However, this penalty only applies if you’re under the age of 65; the 20% penalty is waived once you reach the age of 65. This aspect brings HSA taxation into alignment with a traditional IRA. Essentially, you’ll be able to utilize your HSA to cover any medical expenses tax-free, with any non-medical expenses subject to income tax. This can be a smart way to create another retirement income stream.
SEE ALSO: LIFE INSURANCE: SHOULD IT BE PART OF YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN?
Making These Health Savings Account Advantages Work for You
HSAs have become increasingly popular for managing healthcare costs and saving for the future. By leveraging the Health Savings Account advantages mentioned above, you can take charge of your healthcare expenses while also building your wealth, giving you a better chance at achieving financial security in retirement, even in the face of rising healthcare costs.
If you’re interested in exploring the full potential of your HSA, or in discussing any other elements of your financial plan, give us a call today. Our team of advisors can provide personalized guidance on HSA contributions, investment strategies, and long-term financial planning. Take control of your healthcare and your financial future today!
