If you elect an HDHP (high deductible health plan), you may be eligible to also contribute to an HSA (health savings account), which allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses. HDHP premiums are lower each paycheck, but your deductible and out-of-pocket maximums will be higher than a traditional PPO plan. The content below may help you decide if this is right for you.
A few important notes to be aware of when considering an HDHP plan:
There are unique rules set by the IRS that HDHPs have to follow.
Employee pays 100% until they meet the deductible (co-pays are not allowed)
Employee pays the full cost of care for everything except for qualified preventive care until they hit the deductible.
The IRS issued guidelines in mid-2019, expanding the list of preventive services that can be covered pre-deductible on an HDHP.
Our Garner benefit works differently if you have a HDHP plan. View the Garner page here for more information.
You contribute money to the HSA (either a lump sum payment or monthly through payroll deductions). You can use HSA dollars to pay your health insurance deductible, along with other qualified medical expenses such as dental or vision services. Once you meet your deductible, your insurance pays additional covered expenses in accordance with our plan.
Qualified medical expenses include:
Most medical care expenses (deductibles, coinsurance, doctors visits, etc.)
Prescription drugs
Over-the-counter drugs, with prescription
Insulin
Dental or vision care
Some insurance premiums
Health insurance premiums wile receiving unemployment benefits
Qualified long-term care premiums
Any health insurance premiums paid (other than for a Medicare supplement policy) by individuals age 65 and over
The following medical expenses cannot be reimbursed from HSA tax-free:
Most insurance premiums
Over-the-counter drugs without a prescription (except insulin)
General health items (example: hand sanitizer, toiletries)
Most cosmetic surgery or cosmetic procedures
Expenses covered by another health plan
Expenses incurred before HSA was established
Yes! The IRS sets limits each year for HSA contributions. See our Benefits Summary for the current contribution limits. If you’re 55 or older anytime during the plan year, you’ll continue to be able to contribute an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution.
View this page that has all the details you'll need to use and maximize your Garner benefits.
If you have other questions, click the button below to email HR