FSA and HSA Basics

How the accounts work: contributions, deadlines, HDHP pairing, job changes.

Most people set up an FSA or an HSA once during open enrollment and then never look at it again. That is where the money goes missing. The two accounts share a name and almost nothing else.

An HSA is yours. It rolls over every year, it follows you between jobs, it can be invested, and it pairs only with a high deductible health plan. An FSA belongs to your employer’s plan year. It usually does not roll over, which is where the use-it-or-lose-it pressure comes from, and it is the one with the March deadline that catches people every spring.

The guides in this topic cover the mechanics: how much to put in, what happens to the balance when you leave a job, whether you can spend it on a spouse or a parent, and when it is smarter to leave an HSA invested than to spend it.

None of it requires a benefits background. It requires knowing which of the two accounts you have.

FSA Grace Period Deadline Is March 15: How to Spend Your FSA Before You Lose It

Your 2025 FSA funds are about to expire. Here's what you need to know, what you can buy, and how to get the documentation you need before it's too late.

HDHP + HSA – A Complete Strategy Guide for Beginners

You have an HSA and want to understand HDHP basics, HSA fundamentals, contribution strategies, and when to spend vs. save.

How Much Should I Contribute to My HSA?

You just got an HSA or it's Open Enrollment time. Read along to understand the guidelines and factors that matter when deciding how much to contribute to your HSA.

What do I do With My HSA If I'm Changing Jobs?

What happens to your HSA when you're no longer at the same job? Learn about your options and key considerations when deciding on next steps.

What's an HSA?

Learn everything you need to know about Health Savings Accounts and how they can help you save money on healthcare expenses.

When to Save vs. Spend Your HSA Funds

You just got an HSA and are trying to understand when you should save and invest your HSA funds vs. when it may be better to spend them.

Can I Use My HSA For Family Members?

You have an HSA and want to know when you can use it toward family members' healthcare expenses

How Much Should I Contribute to My FSA?

You just got an FSA or it's Open Enrollment time. Read along to understand the guidelines and factors that matter when deciding how much to contribute to your FSA.

What do I do With My FSA If I'm Changing Jobs?

What happens to your FSA when you're no longer at the same job? Learn about your options and key considerations when deciding on next steps.

What's an FSA?

Learn everything you need to know about Flexible Spending Accounts and how they can help you save money on healthcare expenses.

What's the Difference Between an HSA and an FSA?

Learn the key differences between an HSA and an FSA – both help you save on your healthcare expenses, but they're not the same.

Burst guide cover, for shoppers: the headline "Spend your 2026 FSA on purpose" over the line "Three deadlines, one balance. What to buy at $100, $500, and $1,500." with three tags: Dec 31 or Mar 15, $680 carryover, Real prices.

FSA Deadline 2026: What to Buy Before Your Money Is Gone

Your 2026 FSA deadline is Dec 31, Mar 15, or a $680 carryover. Find yours in two minutes, then a spend list by balance with real prices and letter flags.