What is the purpose of a flexible spending account (FSA)?

A flexible spending account (FSA) is specifically designed to allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover eligible health care expenses that are not fully paid by health insurance plans. This includes costs such as copayments, deductibles, and certain over-the-counter medications. By using pre-tax money, individuals can effectively lower their taxable income, making it a valuable tool for managing out-of-pocket health expenses. Funds deposited into the FSA can be used for medical expenses incurred during the plan year, providing a way for individuals to budget for healthcare costs.

Retirement savings options and investment opportunities in stocks are unrelated to the primary purpose of an FSA. While education savings can be a concern for individuals, FSAs are not intended for that purpose either. Thus, the function of an FSA is centered around health-related financial planning, making it particularly beneficial in managing everyday medical expenses.