Using HSA for Orthodontics: A Comprehensive Guide Posted on March 30, 2023
Can You Use HSA for Orthodontics?
As healthcare costs continue to soar across the US, many individuals in St. Louis and beyond are turning to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) as a way to save money on medical expenses. But, can you use your HSA for orthodontic treatment? The answer is yes, but there are some important factors to consider first.
What Is a Health Savings Account (HSA)? How Do HSAs Work?
An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account that allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified medical expenses. These can include deductibles, copays, and other out-of-pocket expenses, as well as certain medical procedures like orthodontic treatment.
Am I Eligible for an HSA?
In order to contribute to an HSA, you must be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). An HDHP is a type of health insurance plan that has a higher deductible than traditional plans.
However, HDHPs typically have lower monthly premiums, which can make them a cost-effective option for those looking to save money on healthcare costs. If you have an HSA and are enrolled in an HDHP, you can use your HSA funds to pay for orthodontic treatment.
Are There Limits to HSA Contributions?
Yes, there are annual limits to how much you can contribute to an HSA. Families have higher contribution limits than individuals, and individuals over the age of 55 can make additional contributions.
To avoid any potential issues, keep meticulous records of your HSA transactions, including expenses related to orthodontic treatment. These records can help you avoid any potential issues if you’re audited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
HSA for Orthodontics: What Is Covered?
You can use your HSA to pay for many orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic treatments used to correct bite problems, overcrowding, or other dental issues. However, it’s important to note that cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers are generally not considered qualified expenses.
What constitutes a qualified expense for your HSA? According to the IRS, expenses for medical care include amounts paid for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, and the costs for treatments affecting any part or function of the body. This includes orthodontic treatment, which is used to correct misaligned teeth and jaws.
Be sure to contact your orthodontist for more information.
Take the First Step Toward a Beautiful Smile!
If you’re looking to save money on orthodontic treatment, an HSA can be a valuable option. While not all insurance plans cover orthodontics, HSAs can be used to pay for this and other qualified medical expenses, helping you save money on healthcare costs by using pre-taxed income.
Are you ready to meet with an orthodontist in St. Louis? At Cardinal Orthodontics, we’re always welcoming new patients, and better yet – your first exam is free! We offer both in-office and online options for your orthodontic exam; schedule an appointment today.
Categories: Orthodontic TreatmentTags: HSA