The high cost of medical care has made health care inaccessible for many. Rising costs and declining employer-provided insurance have led people to take more personal responsibility for their health insurance. Health savings accounts (HSAs) are a popular option, allowing individuals to save for medical expenses tax-free. This course covers HSAs, used with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), explaining their establishment, maintenance, eligibility, funding, and usage.

• demonstrate understanding of health savings accounts, their uses, eligibility requirements, and their tax-advantaged nature
  
• recognize the characteristics of the two parts of HSAs-the high-deductible health plan and the savings account itself
  
• demonstrate an understanding of the contribution rules that pertain to HSAs, including limits, catch-up provisions, and the special rules for married people
  
• articulate the tax issues surrounding HSAs
  
• recognize the difference between qualified and nonqualified medical expenses