HSA’s: Healthy Retirement Saving

I’ve talked about Health Savings Accounts (HSA’s) in the past but it was time for Matt Robison and I to revisit one of my favorite retirement accounts. You read that correctly, HSA’s are great vehicles for retirement savings. Here’s the four W’s:What: What is a Health Savings account? It is an employee benefit intended to offset health care costs of high deductible insurance plans. Once opened, employees and employers can contribute to this account (more on this below). The money can be used now to pay for out of pocket medical expenses such as co-pays, prescriptions and even certain over-the-counter items such as sunscreen OR it can be saved to pay for medical expenses incurred in the future and to reimburse for expenses paid during the eligible period.Why: Why open an HSA? It’s simple: Contributions made to the account are tax free. Eligible withdrawals are tax free. And all money earned in the account incurs no tax burden. That is the triple tax benefit!How: How do you open an HSA? Have a chat with your company’s HR department. Evaluate your options. Choosing an insurance plan for your family that works for your current needs is the priority. If your employer offers a high deductible plan with an HSA and you have the means to cover your health care expenses, open the account. Contribute the maximum per year (often employers will contribute to these accounts as well so be sure to take advantage of FREE MONEY). Invest the money in the account in a low cost index fund. Let the money grow while you collect receipts for your eligible medical expenses. In 10-20 years, use all that cash to buy yourself a new knee or hip or reimburse yourself for all those kids’ urgent care bills and pay NOTHING to Uncle Sam.Who: Who can take advantage of this amazing benefit? Anyone working for an employer that offers an HSA. Check with your HR department today!Tune in to hear more details about this savvy retirement savings strategy.Learn more about Mike and my services at https://www.mortonfinancialadvice.com and connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwsmorton/Are you ready to create your ideal lifestyle? Let’s Connect.