FSA vs. HSA: What’s the Difference And How to Use Your Benefits Before They Expire
November 12 • 2025
Confused about FSA vs. HSA? We break down the differences and shares how to use your benefits before the end of the year.
FSA vs. HSA: Know the Difference, Maximize Your Health Benefits
It’s that time of year, your inbox is full of reminders to use your health benefits before they expire. But if you’re not sure what you have (or what it covers), don’t worry. Aylo Health is here to help break it down. Let’s clear up the confusion between FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account), and help you make the most of your money before the year ends.
Confused about health spending accounts? Let’s break down FSA vs. HSA in under 60 seconds with Dr. Shah.
What Is an FSA?
FSA stands for Flexible Spending Account. It’s a type of account you can use to pay for qualified medical expenses with pre-tax dollars which can help you save money overall. Pre-tax dollar refers to money that is deducted from your gross income before taxes are calculated and withheld.
Key things to know:
- Use it or lose it: Most FSA funds expire on December 31 so if you don’t use them, you lose them.
- You can’t carry over unused money into the next year (unless your plan offers a small grace period or rollover, so check with your employer).
- Great for: Co-pays, prescriptions, vision/dental visits, and preventive care at places like Aylo Health.
- Can also use for: Exercise equipment*, First Aid Kit essentials like bandages, joint braces, thermometers, and blood pressure monitors. Even Skincare products like certain acne treatments, sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher, and lip balms with SPF can use FSA funds.
*Exercise equipment (with a doctor’s note): If your doctor recommends it for physical rehabilitation, you can use your FSA for items like free weights, foam rollers, yoga mats, and even more expensive equipment like treadmills or Peloton bikes.
What Is an HSA?
HSA stands for Health Savings Account. Like an FSA, it lets you use pre-tax dollars for medical expenses but with way more flexibility.
Key things to know:
- You keep your money year after year, so no rush to spend it before the end of the year.
- Your HSA can grow over time with interest or investments, making it a great long-term savings tool.
- You must be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) to qualify.
- Great for: Covering unexpected medical costs, saving for future healthcare needs, and using at Aylo Health for preventive care or routine visits.
What Can You Use FSA or HSA Funds On?
Good news: both accounts cover qualified medical expenses, and that includes many services you’ll find at Aylo Health:
- Preventive care visits
- Co-pays
- Prescription medications
- Vaccinations
- Lab work
- Chronic condition management
- Women’s health screenings
- And more
Don’t Let Your Benefits Go to Waste
If you have an FSA, now’s the time to act. Schedule that checkup, refill your prescriptions, or book a preventive care visit before December 31. Have questions? Your Aylo Health provider can help you understand what qualifies and how to use your benefits wisely. It is easy to book an appointment at any time using our mobile app.