The Health Savings Account

What is a Health Savings Account (HSA)?

• An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account, like an IRA, tied to a high deductible health insurance plan. The health savings account may be used to pay for deductibles, coinsurance and other qualified healthcare expenses (Section 213(d) of the Internal Revenue Code), on a tax-free basis.
• Unlike other types of health savings vehicles, HSA contributions and earnings carry over from year to year allowing you to build up your savings over time. If not used by age 65 you may also use the funds in your HSA to supplement your retirement income.
• Unlike most other employer sponsored savings plans, HSAs are portable and remain with you regardless of your employment status. You control your money.

Advantages of an HSA

• Tax-deductible Contributions: Contributions are tax deductible for individuals, the self-employed and employers.
• Tax-free: Withdrawals used to pay for qualified healthcare expenses are tax-free.
• Low Cost: Qualified HSA insurance plans cost less due to the high deductible regulations.
• Options: You also have the option of selecting from a variety of investment vehicles.
• Easy Access: If you select one of our recommended HSA banks/trustees/custodians, accessing your HSA savings is easy with a convenient Visa Check Card or checks that are included when you establish your HSA account.
  

Five Simple Puppy Training Tips

Getting a new puppy can be one of the most exciting experiences for you and your family, but you must consider and understand your new puppy's needs, so make sure that you have prepared for your new addition to the family and that you are able to care for him and make him welcome the moment he arrives. here are five important puppy tips.

1. Spend time researching the type of dog breed that best suits you your family, your surroundings and environment. If you choose a large dog that needs a lot of exercise you must be prepared to walk it several times a day unless you have a large backyard. If you have children choose a dog breed that has the right temperament, not a breed that is too aggressive or too jealous.

2. Buy your puppy a crate, bedding, lead and collar in advance so that everything is ready when your puppy arrives home.

3. Find the whereabouts and details of your local veterinarian ask him when your puppy should have his first vaccinations and ask him the price.

4. Understand that a puppy is a life time commitment make sure you are committed and can afford the expense of your puppy's food toys and vet bills and any other expenses that you may not have thought of, like pet insurance.

5. Take into account a dogs natural instinctive behaviors realize that it is at heart a pack animal. Make sure you understand basic puppy training find information on how to train your puppy correctly or find details of a nearby dog trainer or training school.

So basically these are five important puppy tips but remember when you bring your new puppy home make sure you are well prepared and have taken all the necessary steps and precautions to adjust him to his new surroundings and you will have a healthy happy puppy.