HDHP Pretax HSA Payroll Deduction Resources for Members

Important Update for SHBP High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) Members

Beginning January 1, 2026, members will have the opportunity to make pre-tax contributions to an Optum Bank Health Savings Account (HSA) through payroll deduction.

Georgia House Bill 422

Georgia House Bill 422 , passed during the 2025 legislative session, requires that each covered employee who is enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) have the ability to make pre-tax contributions to a Health Savings Account (HSA) through payroll deductions starting January 1, 2026.

What’s an HSA?

An HSA is a personal savings account designed to help you set aside money for health care expenses like deductibles and coinsurance. It offers real tax advantages. You can contribute pre-tax dollars through payroll deductions and then use those funds tax-free for qualified medical expenses.

Use it now, or save it for later.

You can choose to use your HSA for current health care expenses or save it for the future — even into retirement.

Once you reach a balance threshold, you can invest your HSA dollars.

It’s yours to keep.

There is no “use it or lose it” rule.

The balance can grow from year to year. If you leave your employer, you can take your HSA with you.

It’s not just for doctor visits and prescriptions.

Use it to pay for vision exams, eyeglasses, dental exams, hearing aids, long-term care and more.

Contribution Limits

Contribution Limits:

Contribution limits are set by the IRS annually. Check the IRS website prior to the beginning of each plan year to ensure you don’t exceed the annual IRS thresholds. The amount you—or any other person—can contribute to an HSA depends on the type of HDHP coverage you have, your age, the date you become eligible and the date you cease to be eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you currently enrolled in the HDHP or considering enrolling and opening an HSA?

Click the link below to learn more about the HSA enrollment process.

Learn More