FSAs and HSAs Compared

FSAs and HSAs Compared

The Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are an affordable way to save money on health care. FSAs and HSAs operate differently. Here’s how.

	DEPENDENT CARE FSA	HEALTH CARE FSA	LIMITED USE FSA	HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT
Who can participate:	If you anticipate eligible dependent day care expenses.	If you enroll in the PPO or HMO or do not elect any BMC medical plan	If you enroll in the BCBSTX HSA Plan	If you enroll in the BCBSTX HSA Plan
What happens to unused contributions	Subject to the “use it or lose it” rule; you forfeit them at the end of the year	You can carry over up to $640 from one plan year to the next	You can carry over up to $640 from one plan year to the next	Any unused contributions remain in your account for future health care expenses
Contribution type	Before-tax contributions
How much can I contribute	Contribute from $240 to $5,000 per year	Contribute from $240 to $3,200 per year	Contribute from $240 to $3,200 per year	Single: $4,150 All other coverage levels: $8,300 If you are 55 or older, you can deposit up to an additional $1,000.
What expenses are eligible	Any eligible dependent day care expenses – as qualified by the IRS and incurred during the year	A full range of qualified medical expenses – as qualified by the IRS and incurred during the calendar year	Dental and vision expenses only (until you meet your deductible) and a limited range of expenses after you meet your deductible) – as qualified by the IRS and incurred during the calendar year.	A full range of qualified medical expenses – as qualified by the IRS
When can I change the contribution amount	The amount you contribute cannot change during the year unless you have a qualified status change (life event).			Change contribution amounts anytime
When are expenses reimbursed	All eligible expenses are reimbursed when you file a claim. However, reimbursements can only be made as funds become available from payroll deductions.	All eligible expenses are reimbursed when you use your debit card or file a claim up to the full amount of your annual contribution, regardless of the actual amount of money that has been deposited into your account through payroll deductions.	All eligible expenses are reimbursed when you use your debit card or file a claim up to the full amount of your annual contribution, regardless of the actual amount of money that has been deposited into your account through payroll deductions.	All eligible expenses are reimbursed when you file a claim or use your debit card. However, reimbursements can only be made as funds become available from payroll deductions or company contributions are deposited.