Are you an employer considering offering a health flexible spending account? Or perhaps you are an employee being offered the opportunity to contribute, but you aren’t sure what it is, and if there is a benefit to doing so.
Today’s video will explain what it is and the benefits of contributing funds to one. Although I will focus on this topic from the employer’s perspective, the information I’ll share will be helpful if you are an employee as well.
A Health Flexible Spending Account (HFSA) is a valuable employee benefit that allows individuals to set aside pre-tax dollars from their paycheck to cover eligible healthcare expenses. This tax-advantaged account can be used to pay for medical costs incurred by the employee, their spouse, or their dependents.
At the start of the plan year, employees elect a specific amount to contribute to their HFSA, which is then deducted from their paycheck in equal installments throughout the year. These contributions are made pre-tax, reducing their taxable income and effectively lowering their overall tax liability.
Funds in an HFSA are often subject to a “use it or lose it” policy, meaning that any unused money at the end of the plan year may be forfeited. However, many employers offer options such as:
- Carryover: Allowing a portion of unused funds to roll over into the next year.
- Grace Period: Providing extra time, typically up to 2.5 months, to use the remaining balance.
You might be wondering what expenses can be paid with these funds.
The IRS determines which healthcare expenses are eligible for reimbursement through an HFSA. Commonly covered expenses include:
- Insurance Plan Costs: Deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
- Medications: Both prescription and certain over-the-counter drugs.
- Dental and Vision Care: Routine checkups, fillings, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and eye exams.
- Alternative Therapies: Chiropractic care and acupuncture, if medically necessary.
Employees can access their HFSA funds in two ways:
- Debit Card: Many HFSAs provide a debit card linked to the account, allowing employees to pay directly at the point of service.
- Reimbursement: Employees can submit receipts and claims to their HFSA administrator for reimbursement of eligible expenses.
So, why do employees value HFSAs?
These accounts offer several advantages that make them a popular choice among employees:
- Tax Savings: Contributions are made pre-tax, reducing overall taxable income and increasing take-home pay.
- Budgeting for Healthcare: Employees can plan for anticipated medical expenses, such as orthodontic work or new prescription glasses.
- Managing Unexpected Costs: HFSAs provide upfront access to funds, making it easier to handle unforeseen healthcare expenses without financial strain.
Health Flexible Spending Accounts can be an excellent tool for employees looking to manage healthcare costs more efficiently while enjoying tax benefits. Understanding how these accounts work and what expenses are covered can help employees maximize their HFSA and make the most of this valuable benefit.
If you’re an employer, offering an HFSA as part of your benefits package can enhance employee satisfaction and well-being, making it a win-win for both your workforce and your organization.
If you have additional questions on this topic, be sure to reach out to your tax professional for advice on the tax benefits you can also receive as well as a benefits administrator who can assist you with any additional information you need to determine if offering a HFSA is right for you.
