How do I get one?

You can only get an HSA if you have a high deductible health insurance plan (HDHP) through your job or if you are self-employed.

FSAs are offered by some employers as a job benefit.

How do I put money in it?

If you get an HSA through your job, money is taken out of your paycheck before taxes and put in your HSA. Your employer might also put in some extra funds. If your job does not have an HSA option, you can put money aside on your own.

Your employer takes the amount you want out of your paycheck and puts it in the FSA. Your employer might also put in some extra funds.

What can I spend the money on?

You can use it for most health care costs, like copays, prescription drugs, vision care, and dental care.

Once you are older than 65, you can use the money for non health care costs.

You can use it for most health care costs, like copays, prescription drugs, vision care, and dental care.

You cannot use the money for any non health care costs.

What happens if I don’t spend the money within one year?

You do not have to spend the money you saved within one year. It will roll over year to year, even after you change jobs or stop working.

It depends. Most of the time, you have to spend it all each year, or you will lose the money that is still in the account. Some jobs let you roll over some of the money into the next year.

What if I leave my job or retire?

Your HSA travels with you — you can keep the account and the money that is in it.

You will lose the FSA and any money that is still in it.