3 Things They Don’t Want You to Know About Your HSA

Your Health Savings Account (HSA) is like a secret weapon for your finances, but most people don’t realize just how powerful it can be. Why? Because the industry makes money when you don’t know how to maximize it. But you’re about to get the inside scoop. Here are three things they don’t want you to know about your HSA:

1. Your HSA is an Investment Goldmine (If You Use It Right)

Most people treat their HSA like a glorified piggy bank, spending it on every eligible expense that comes up. But what they don’t tell you? Your HSA can be invested—just like a 401(k) or an IRA—allowing your money to grow tax-free.

Instead of using your HSA funds right away, you can pay for medical expenses out-of-pocket, save your receipts (forever), and reimburse yourself later—after your investments have had years to compound. It’s the ultimate tax-advantaged loophole.

2. It’s the Only Triple Tax-Advantaged Account (And That’s Huge!)

They mention tax benefits, but they rarely emphasize that your HSA is the only account with three tax advantages:

• Your contributions are tax-deductible.
• Your investments grow tax-free.
• Your withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free.

Compare that to an IRA or 401(k), which only gives you two of these perks. The result? Your HSA is one of the most tax-efficient tools in your financial toolkit—if you play your cards right.

3. You Can Use It for More Than Just Medical Expenses

HSAs are primarily marketed as healthcare accounts, but did you know they can also act as a retirement savings vehicle? Once you hit age 65, you can withdraw funds for anything—not just medical expenses—without penalty (though you’ll pay regular income tax, like a traditional IRA). Plus, you can use HSA funds tax-free for Medicare premiums and long-term care.

So, if you max out your retirement accounts and still have room to save, your HSA can be a smart place to stash extra funds for the future.

The Bottom Line

Your HSA is more than just a place to stash medical money—it’s a secret financial powerhouse that can help you build long-term wealth. The catch? You have to use it wisely. Now that you’re in on the secrets, it’s time to start strategizing and making your HSA work for you! Start Health is one of the only health insurance alternative models that is HSA compatible AND we have an in-house investment platform!