Most people think of a 401(k) or IRA when they hear the term tax-advantaged account. But there may be an even more powerful option hiding in your employee benefits package.
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the differences between Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), why one of them offers a unique triple tax advantage, and how these accounts can fit into a broader financial plan.
They cover:
● Why HSAs are often considered the most tax-advantaged account available
● The key differences between HSAs and FSAs
● How eligibility rules and contribution limits work
● Why some investors use an HSA as a long-term retirement planning tool
● Common mistakes that can reduce the value of these accounts
● Strategies for avoiding the "use it or lose it" pitfalls of FSAs
● How major life changes can impact your emergency fund, tax withholding, and retirement savings goals
● Why a mid-year financial checkup can help prevent costly surprises later in the year
The key takeaway: whether you're evaluating your employee benefits, preparing for future healthcare costs, or simply trying to stay on track financially, the middle of the year is an ideal time to review your strategy and make adjustments before small issues become bigger problems.