HSA vs FSA Calculator
Enter the same contribution amount and tax bracket for both accounts. The side-by-side comparison shows where each account saves more — and highlights the HSA's long-term investment advantage.
Shared Inputs
Key Differences: HSA vs FSA
| Feature | HSA | FSA |
|---|---|---|
| Requires HDHP enrollment | Yes | No |
| 2025 contribution limit (self) | $4,300 | $3,300 |
| Rollover | Unlimited, forever | Up to $660 (employer option) |
| Investment option | Yes (tax-free growth) | No |
| FICA savings via payroll | Yes | Yes |
| State tax deduction | Most states (not CA/NJ/AL) | Most states |
| Post-65 non-medical use | Allowed (taxed as income) | Not applicable |
| Portable if job changes | Yes | No (employer-tied) |
← Back to HSA Calculator | View all HSA limits by year →
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally no. If you are enrolled in a qualifying HDHP and contribute to an HSA, you cannot also contribute to a general-purpose FSA. However, a "Limited-Purpose FSA" (covering only dental and vision expenses) is allowed alongside an HSA.
FSA funds typically follow a "use it or lose it" rule. Employers may optionally allow either a grace period (2.5 months) or a rollover of up to $660 (2024 limit; verify for your plan year) into the following year — but not both. Unused HSA funds roll over indefinitely with no penalty.
An HSA is generally better for healthy individuals who anticipate low medical spending. You can invest unused HSA funds and let them grow tax-free for decades, effectively turning the HSA into a stealth retirement account for healthcare costs.
Your employer does not need to offer an HSA — you can open one directly with an HSA provider (bank, credit union, or brokerage) as long as you are enrolled in a qualifying HDHP. However, employer contributions and payroll deductions require a workplace plan.
For 2025, the IRS health FSA contribution limit is $3,300 per employee (Rev. Proc. 2024-40). Dependent care FSAs have a separate limit of $5,000 per household ($2,500 if married filing separately).