Can I use my HSA for dental and vision?

Yes. Qualified medical expenses include dental care (exams, fillings, braces, dentures), vision care (eye exams, glasses, contacts, LASIK), and many other health-related expenses not covered by insurance.

What happens to my HSA if I change jobs?

Your HSA is yours — it is not tied to your employer. If you change jobs, the account and its balance stay with you. However, if your new employer does not offer an HDHP, you cannot make new contributions until you are enrolled in a qualifying plan again.

HSA Guide: How Health Savings Accounts Reduce Medical Costs

What Is a Health Savings Account?

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged savings account designed for people enrolled in a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). HSAs offer a triple tax advantage: contributions are tax-deductible, earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. No other savings vehicle in the US tax code offers all three benefits.

HSA Eligibility and 2026 Contribution Limits

To open and contribute to an HSA, you must be enrolled in an HDHP (minimum deductible of $1,650 for individuals or $3,300 for families in 2026), have no other non-HDHP health coverage, not be enrolled in Medicare, and not be claimed as a dependent. The 2026 contribution limits are $4,300 for individuals and $8,550 for families. If you are 55 or older, you can contribute an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution.

The Triple Tax Advantage

First, contributions reduce your taxable income (saving you money on federal and most state income taxes). Second, any interest or investment gains in the account grow tax-free. Third, withdrawals for qualified medical expenses — including deductibles, copays, prescriptions, dental, and vision — are completely tax-free. This makes an HSA the most tax-efficient way to pay for healthcare.

Using Your HSA for Medical Bills

You can use HSA funds to pay for any qualified medical expense, including doctor visits, hospital bills, prescriptions, dental work, vision care, mental health services, and medical equipment. Many HSA providers offer a debit card for direct payment. Keep receipts for all HSA withdrawals in case of an IRS audit. Non-qualified withdrawals are subject to income tax plus a 20% penalty if you are under 65.

HSA as a Retirement Tool

Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), HSA balances roll over indefinitely — there is no 'use it or lose it' rule. Many financial advisors recommend maximizing HSA contributions and paying current medical expenses out of pocket if possible, allowing the HSA to grow as a long-term investment. After age 65, you can withdraw HSA funds for any purpose without penalty (though non-medical withdrawals are taxed as income, similar to a traditional IRA).