What is the main purpose of a Health Savings Account (HSA)?

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is primarily designed to allow individuals to set aside funds tax-free for qualified medical expenses. This means that contributions made to an HSA are tax-deductible, and any earnings or growth within the account remain tax-free as long as the funds are used for eligible healthcare costs. This incentivizes saving for future medical expenses while providing immediate tax benefits upon contribution.

The purpose of an HSA aligns with enabling individuals to manage their healthcare expenses proactively and economically, which can include doctor visits, medications, and other qualified medical services. By allowing for funds to be set aside in a tax-advantaged account specifically for healthcare purposes, HSAs help individuals plan and save for medical costs more effectively.

While it’s true that HSAs may also provide opportunities for investment (where applicable) and can offer some level of liquidity for immediate medical needs, the core purpose remains focused on facilitating tax-free savings for qualified expenses specifically.