HSA funding – anyway to intially fund with a lumpsum?

Just looking to understand this a bit better. We have had Aetna PPO insurance up until now. We decided to try and go with the Aetna HDHP. We did have an FSA account that we setup last year. We selected during benefit enrollment to have $1200.00. That money was available immediately when the new year began.

It appears as though the HSA does not work this way. We selected to withhold $3,400.00 for the year with our employer adding another $1,000.00. However, it looks as though these funds are only available as they are deposited every paycheck, including the employers portion (~$38.00 per 2 week paycheck).

With all that being said, since this is out first year, we won't have much in there to begin the year with and cover our medical expenses. Is there a way to withold more from our paychecks up front (like a lumpsum payment) in order to build up some funds? Thanks in advance for any help or insight you may have!

PS Why does heath insurance have to be so overwhelming? Feel like we are taking a risk with the HSA but you can really predict the future as far as expenses. If anyone wants to add any experiences switching between the two I am all ears!

submitted by /u/Salty_Win5828
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