I have a little more information about the HSA thing though...

HSAs were previously a lot less restrictive on stuff that you could distribute the money on. For 2014, they are tightened.

Some examples: In 2013, I could use an HSA to pay for gym memberships, athletic equipment, etc... I could even use an HSA for new running shoes if I wanted to. The umbrella for paying for things out of the HSA to better your health was incredibly broad.

In 2014, HSAs are much more specific to prescription benefits and doctor visits. You can no longer expense things through an HSA for peripheral health activities like a kayak or gym membership.


Other changes is that in 2013 or earlier, HSA was on an annual use-it-or-lose-it basis. As of 2014, the HSA will persist year-to-year (which kinda also can create a secondary retirement account).

Due to the re-structuring of the HSA, all HSA distributions in 2014 can be used towards your annual health insurance deductible... so it's a bit easier to track your progress towards reaching that deductible.

Similarly to before, 2013 and 2014 HSA contributions are applied after SS/Medicare taxes, but before federal and state income taxes, similarly to 401(k) contributions.


Source: Many internal HR sessions on our 2014 health plans.